about midnight
Mr. M'Fadden lies on his bed , writhing under the pain of the poisoned wound . He left his preacher locked up for the night in a cold hovel , and he has secured the dangerous Bible , lest it lessen his value . Mr. M'Fadden , however , feels that now his earthly career is fast closing he must seek redemption . Hie has called in the aid of a physician , who tells him there is great danger , and little hope unless his case takes a favourable turn about midnight . The professional gentleman merely suggests this , but the suggestion conveys an awful warning . All the misdeeds of the past cloud before his eyes ; they summon him to make his peace with his Maker . He remembers what has been told him about the quality of mercy , -- the duration of hope in redemption , -- which he may secure by rendering justice to those he has wronged .