midnight
That idea of figuring in a picturesque habit , and in a halo of churchyard light , was irresistible . Hyacinth promised to conform to Malfort 's plans , and to be ready to assume her phantom _ rôle _ whenever she was called upon . Angela knew something of the scheme , and that there was to be another assembly at Millbank ; but her sister had seemed disinclined to talk of the plan in her presence -- a curious reticence in one whose sentiments and caprices were usually given to the world at large with perfect freedom . For once in her life Hyacinth had a secret air , and checked herself suddenly in the midst of her light babble at a look from De Malfort , who had urged her to keep her sister out of their midnight party . `` I pledge my honour that there shall be nothing to offend , '' he told her , `` but I hope to have the wittiest coxcombs in London , and we want no prudes to strangle every jest with a long-drawn lip and an alarmed eye . Your sister has a pale , fragile prettiness which pleases an eye satiated with the exuberant charms of your Rubens and Titian women ; but she is not handsome enough to give herself airs ; and she is a little inclined that way . By the faith of a gentleman , I have suffered scowls from her that I would scarce have endured from Barbara ! ''