midnight
Walter detests Catholics ; and if he thought I was still one , he 'd never wed me . But it can not last long -- I shall soon be free ; and , once Jerrold 's wife , I can practise my religion if I choose . At any rate , I shall _ die a Catholic _ ! '' It was midnight . All was silent in the death-chamber . The night-taper was placed behind a screen ; and the fire-light flickered with a tremulous motion on the richly-carved , antique furniture , black and polished by age , and creeping upwards , threw long , wavering shadows on the wall . Amidst this solemn twilight , a table spread with white , which supported a crucifix , wax lights , and flowers , stood near the sick man 's bed .