midnight
She seemed literally to have been spirited away . It became so late that at last all the other children were taken home , and we were left just ourselves -- a very miserable family . '' Eustace sat up suddenly and held his breath , his face blanched , his eyes alert . `` At last , close on midnight , '' Mrs. Orban went on in a low voice . `` Mother , mother , '' Eustace said in a sharp whisper , kneeling and putting an arm protectingly round her , `` did you hear something ? '' `` Yes , darling , '' Mrs. Orban continued , `` close on midnight -- '' `` No , no , '' Eustace said , `` not then -- now -- this minute , as you were speaking ! '' Mrs. Orban started perceptibly .