about midnight
A resolution was forming in her mind . Before they retired to rest , Carl whispered to her -- `` I have written to my father to-day , and -- to-morrow , Elizabeth , is our betrothal-day ! '' Elizabeth was the last in the room , putting it to rights , and when she left she took a sheet of paper and writing materials with her . She lay down on her bed ; but about midnight she was sitting up by a light and disfiguring a sheet of paper with writing . It was to this effect : -- `` Forgive me that I can not be your wife , for my heart is given to another . -- Elizabeth Raklev . '' She folded the paper and fastened it with a pin for want of a wafer , and then quietly opening the door of the room where Madam Beck was sleeping , placed her lips close to her ear , and whispered her name .