an hour after midnight
The moonbeams flashed upon the bright blade as it turned in its descent , hilt downward , and plunged for ever deep , deep into the sea . Then Kenric stood awhile with clasped hands , looking far across to the Arran fells , whose snowy mantles glanced like silver under the silent moon . From the distance behind him he heard the faint tinkling of the chapel bell , telling him that the old year , with its turmoil and trouble , was at its end ; and he dropped down upon his knees and covered his face with his hands . It was scarcely half an hour after midnight when Kenric walked towards the arched doorway of St. Blane 's chapel . As he drew near he saw the dim light within , shining through the narrow windows of coloured glass , and he heard the solemn murmur of prayer . He was about to enter when a hand was suddenly laid upon his shoulder . '' 'T is you , my lord ? ''