midnight
But seeing the compartment already well filled by the three Sisters of Mercy and another lady , he closed the door again and passed down the platform to find places for his party elsewhere . The incident was little noticed by Salome at the time , although it was destined to have a serious effect upon her after fate . In a few minutes the train started . `` My dear child , '' recommenced Sister Josephine , as soon as the train was well under way -- `` my dear child , how is it possible that I find you here , alone on the train at midnight ! Were you going on to Paris , and alone ? Was any one to meet you there ? '' `` Dear , good Sister Josephine , ask me no questions yet .