midnight
`` It is a service daily rendered among neighbors , '' thought she , `` and there is nothing compromising about it . '' She tapped twice , therefore , at the door , and Jacques opened it , somewhat surprised at this late visit . But scarcely had she taken a step into the room than the smoke that filled it suddenly choked her , and , before she was able to speak a word , she sank fainting into a chair , dropping her candle and her room door key onto the ground . It was midnight , and everyone in the house was asleep . Jacques thought it better not to call for help . He was afraid , in the first place , of compromising his neighbor . He contented himself , therefore , with opening the window to let in a little fresh air , and , after having sprinkled a few drops of water on the girl 's face , saw her open her eyes and by degrees come to herself .