midnight
From the first he had intended making Edith a bridal present -- a life-sized portrait of Nina , which he knew she would value more than gifts of gold and silver . He had in his possession a daguerreotype taken when she was just eighteen , and sent to him by her father among other things , of which Charlie Hudson was the bearer . From this he would have a picture painted , employing the best artist in Boston , and it was upon this business that he left Grassy Spring the previous day , saying he should probably be home upon the next evening 's train . Just before Richard arrived at Grassy Spring , however , a telegram had been received to the effect that Arthur was detained and would not return until midnight . This Phillis repeated to Richard , who for an instant stood thinking , and then said to Victor , `` I shall stay . I can not go back to Collingwood till I have talked with Arthur . But you may go , I would rather be left alone , and , Victor , you will undoubtedly think it a foolish fancy , but I must sleep in Nina 's room .