midnight
`` I feel an inexpressible consolation in the reflection , that I can not charge myself with anything unconscientious ; and , as for the future , I put my trust in God . I feel as if I could submit to the will of Heaven with cheerfulness '' -- `` Do n't speak so despondingly , Aubrey '' -- `` Despondingly ? '' echoed Mr. Aubrey , with momentary animation -- `` Despondingly ? My dear friend , I feel as if I were indeed entering a scene black as midnight -- but what is it to the _ valley of the shadow of death _ , dear Lord De la Zouch , which is before all of us , and at but a little distance ! I assure you I feel no vain-glorious confidence ; yet I seem to be leaning on the arm of an unseen but all-powerful supporter ! '' `` You are a hero , my dear Aubrey ! '' exclaimed Lord De la Zouch , with sudden fervor .