midnight
he said , passing her ; `` she would like to talk to you about a party for next week -- '' `` Thank you . I am just going home . '' And with an energetic movement she freed herself from him , and was soon in the gayest of talk with the Under-Secretary . * * * * * The reception broke up some time after midnight , and on the way home General Hobson attempted a raid upon his nephew 's intentions . `` I do n't wish to seem an intrusive person , my dear Roger , but may I ask how much longer you mean to stay in Washington ? '' The tone was short and the look which accompanied the words not without sarcasm . Roger , who had been walking beside his companion , still deeply flushed , in complete silence , gave an awkward laugh .