midnight
They waited for two hours longer . At the end of that time four mansions had been burnt to the ground , but the further progress of the flames had been effectually stayed . The crowd had already begun to scatter , and as they walked eastward the streets were full of people making their way homeward . The bell of St. Paul 's was striking midnight as they entered . The Captain and his family had long since gone off to bed . `` This reminds one of that last business , '' John whispered , as they went quietly upstairs . `` It does , John .