midnight
`` In any case you can act the prefect , and see that my orders are carried out . '' The freedman left hastily , and Caracalla sank back exhausted on the pillows . Melissa let him rest a little while ; then she approached him , thanked him profusely , and begged him to keep quiet , lest the pain should return and spoil the approaching day . He then asked the time , and when Philostratus , who had walked to the window , explained that the fifth hour after midnight was past , Caracalla bade him prepare a bath . The physician sanctioned this wish , and Caesar then gave his hand to the girl , saying , feebly and in a gentle voice : `` The pain still keeps away . I should be better if I could moderate my impatience . An early bath often does me good after a bad night .