midnight
Rufus listened attentively . In signing the order for his investments , he privately decided to stir no further , for the present , in the matter of his young friend 's marriage-engagement . For the rest of the day and evening , he still waited for Amelius , and waited in vain . It was drawing near to midnight , when Toff made his appearance with a message from his master . Amelius had discovered Sally , and had returned in such a state of fatigue that he was only fit to take some refreshment , and to go to his bed . He would be away from home again , on the next morning ; but he hoped to call at the hotel in the course of the day . Observing Toff 's face with grave and steady scrutiny , Rufus tried to extract some further information from him .