midnight
`` Simpleton , '' laughed the praetor , slapping the alarmed youth lightly on the shoulder . `` What good could it do me to ruin you ? I have only one thing at heart just now , and that is to save Caesar from care and anxiety . Keep him occupied only during the third hour after midnight and you may count on my friendship ; but if out of fear or ill-will you refuse me your assistance you do not deserve your sovereign 's favor and then you will compel me -- '' `` No more , no more ! '' cried Antinous interrupting his tormentor in despair . `` Then you promise me to carry out my wish ? '' `` Yes , by Hercules !