midnight
With the most delightful emotions , Thaddeus sealed this letter and gave it to Nanny , with orders to inquire at the post-office `` when he might expect an answer ? '' The child returned with information that it would reach Grosvenor Square in an hour , and he could have a reply by three o'clock . Three o'clock arrived , and no letter . Thaddeus counted the hours until midnight , but they brought him nothing but disappointment . The whole of the succeeding day wore away in the same uncomfortable manner . His heart bounded at every step in the passage ; and throwing open his room-door , he listened to every person that spoke , but no voice bore any resemblance to that of Somerset . Night again shut in ; and overcome by a train of doubts , in which despondence held the greatest share he threw himself on his bed , though unable to close his eyes .