midnight
`` Perhaps not , '' said I ; `` but these are questions I must decline entering upon . You will yourself perceive that any discussion of them would be inconvenient and indiscreet . '' The diplomatic reserve of this answer checked the warmth of his importunity , and he bashfully withdrew , leaving me to the undisturbed consideration of my own thoughts . I sat till it was already near midnight , gazing on the sea , my eyes still turned to the track by which the vessel had disappeared , and at last rose to retire , when , to my amazement , I perceived my friend the banker , accompanied by another person , approaching towards me . `` Señhor Condé , '' said he , in a mysterious whisper , `` this is his Excellency the Governor ; '' and with these words , uttered in all the reverence of awe , he retired , leaving me face to face with a tall , dignified-looking personage , whose figure was concealed in the folds of a great cloak . In all the formal politeness of his rank and country , the Governor begged I would be seated , and took his place beside me . He explained how the banker , one of the richest and most respected men in the Havannah , had informed him of my gracious intentions respecting them , and the sad mishap by which my mediation was foiled .