midnight
`` I would do any thing to oblige you , colonel ; but I can not without orders from the mayor , '' returned the man , very civilly . `` I 'll see that you do , very quick , '' rejoined the colonel , impatiently ; and taking the little fellow by the arm in a compassionate manner , led him back into the presence of the mayor , followed by the Captain . `` I want to know what you are committing this lad for , '' said the colonel , setting his hat upon the table , while his face flushed with indignation . `` Vagrancy , and caught prowling about the streets with a negro at midnight . That is the charge , colonel , '' replied the mayor , with particular condescension and suavity . `` Was there any proof adduced to substantiate that fact ? '' `` None but the policeman 's ; you know we are bound to take that as prima facie . ''