midnight
And there were kisses with this feast that came from the heart ; and sound red wine that went to it . And later , the courtyard was filled with villagers come to congratulate and to drink the health of the bride and groom . * * * * * They are gone . And the thrice-happy Suzette is dreaming of her own wedding to come , for it is long past midnight and I am alone with my wise old cat -- `` The Essence of Selfishness , '' and my good and faithful spaniel whom I call `` Mr. Bear , '' for he looks like a young cinnamon , all save his ears . If poor de Savignac were alive he would hardly recognize the little spaniel puppy he gave me , he has grown so . He has crept into my arms , big as he is , awakening jealousy in `` The Essence of Selfishness '' -- for she hates him -- besides , we have taken her favourite chair . Poor Mr. Bear -- who never troubles her -- `` And _ you _ -- beast whom I love -- another hiss out of you , another flattening of your ears close to your skull , and you go straight to bed .