midnight
Lazarus also did not seem quite himself . He was red instead of pale , and his movements were uncertain and restless . He cleared his throat nervously at intervals and more than once left his chair as if to look for something . It was almost midnight when Loristan , standing near Marco , put his arm round his shoulders . `` The Game '' -- he began , and then was silent a few moments while Marco felt his arm tighten its hold . Both Marco and The Rat felt a hard quick beat in their breasts , and , because of this and because the pause seemed long , Marco spoke . `` The Game -- yes , Father ? ''