midnight
They are beautiful words , and after this lapse of time we take the meaning out for ourselves , in other words , ` Think and Act . ' '' The woman 's laughter from the next room became louder , and then they heard chairs pushed back , and the noise of departure . The rustling of a silk dress , with the clinking of spurs and sword , passed the door , became fainter , and then ceased . It was near midnight , and Schrotter rose to go . He was thinking of Bhani , who was sitting up for him at home . The dinner must have been paid for beforehand , for the guests were spared the sight of a money transaction to chill the end of their pleasant evening . The cool night air felt refreshing after the heat of the small room .