midnight
A glass of hot whisky acted promptly upon his nervous system , enabled him to forget vexations , and attuned him to kindred sprightliness . He entered merrily into the talk of a time of life which is independent of morality -- talk distinct from that of the blackguard , but equally so from that of the reflective man . His first glass had several successors . The trio rambled arm in arm from one place of refreshment to another , and presently sat down in hearty fellowship to a supper of such viands as recommend themselves at bibulous midnight . Peak was drawing recklessly upon the few coins that remained to him ; he must leave his landlady 's claim undischarged , and send the money from home . Prudence be hanged ! If one can not taste amusement once in a twelvemonth , why live at all ?