midnight
`` Why so ? '' asked De Valette ; `` I would only borrow a few hours from repose , and my plan may be accomplished with ease ; -- nor shall you have reason to complain , that I am tardy at the call of duty . '' `` I understand you now , my brave nephew and lieutenant , '' said La Tour , smiling ; `` you would play the lover on this moonlight night , and serenade the lady of your heart , to apprise her of your safe return . '' `` There was not quite so much romance in my plot , '' replied De Valette ; `` but if you permit me to execute it , I pledge myself to return before midnight ; and though you are not a lover , I am sure you are far from being indifferent to the intelligence which I may bring you . '' `` Go , if you will , if you _ can _ in safety , '' said La Tour ; `` though , could your impatience brook the delay of a few short hours , it would be well -- well for yourself , perhaps ; for if I remember right , you could ill bear a look of coldness , and Luciè is not always lavish of her smiles . '' `` I fear it not , '' said De Valette ; `` she would not greet me coldly after so long an absence ; and though you smile at my folly , I am not ashamed to confess my eagerness to see her . '' `` She already knows her power over you but too well , '' said La Tour ; `` shew her that you are indifferent -- disdainful , if you like -- and trust me , she will learn to prize the love , which she now pretends to slight . ''