midnight
_ Oct. 3rd . _ Another long interview with my ancient . I dropped in directly after my breakfast , and about an hour after his dinner . I sat up late last night , occupied till nearly ten in copying my diary for Sheldon -- which was just in time for the London post -- and lingering over my cigar till past midnight , thinking of Charlotte . So I was late this morning . My ancient received me graciously . I took him half a pound of mild bird 's - eye tobacco , on diplomatic grounds .