midnight
Mostyn , an odd figure in pyjamas and dressing-gown , turned his pale , intellectual face to me as I entered . `` It will have to be put back ... secretly , '' he said . His voice was very unsteady . Bristol nodded grimly and glanced at the two constables , who , with a plain-clothes man unknown to me , made up that midnight company . `` I 'll do it , sir , '' said one of the constables suddenly . `` One moment '' -- Mostyn raised his hand ! In the ensuing silence I could hear the heavy breathing of those around me .