midnight
They drew off his boots , and well-nigh stripped him naked , submitting each article of his apparel to a careful examination . At length it was over , and Hogan held Ashburn 's package , turning it over in his hands with a thoughtful expression . `` Surely , sir , you will now allow me to proceed , '' cried Kenneth . `` I assure you the matter is of the greatest urgency , and unless I am in London by midnight I shall be too late . '' `` Too late for what ? '' asked Hogan . `` I -- I do n't know . ''