midnight
When it was thoroughly ablaze Eustacia took it by the stem and waved it in the air above her head till it had burned itself out . She was gratified , if gratification were possible to such a mood , by seeing a similar light in the vicinity of Wildeve 's residence a minute or two later . Having agreed to keep watch at this hour every night , in case she should require assistance , this promptness proved how strictly he had held to his word . Four hours after the present time , that is , at midnight , he was to be ready to drive her to Budmouth , as prearranged . Eustacia returned to the house . Supper having been got over she retired early , and sat in her bedroom waiting for the time to go by . The night being dark and threatening , Captain Vye had not strolled out to gossip in any cottage or to call at the inn , as was sometimes his custom on these long autumn nights ; and he sat sipping grog alone downstairs .