midnight
Catharine pressed my hand . I would almost have given my life to remain longer . Another half-hour passed , when Aunt Grédel cried : `` Listen , Joseph ! It is time for you to go ; the moon does not rise till after midnight , and it will soon be dark as a kiln outside , and an accident happens so easily in these great frosts . '' These words seemed to fall like a bolt of ice , and I felt Catharine 's clasp tighten on my hand . But Aunt Grédel was right . `` Come , '' said she , rising and taking down the cloak from the wall ; `` you will come again Sunday . ''