midnight
After the funeral , I 'll get the word out . '' Jim rode on to his neglected work at the office . There he found the members of the committee awaiting him . Even the chairman was eager to know details of occurrences since they had gone reluctantly to bed after midnight . When Jim had finished his story , the Vermont man said pompously : `` You seem to manage men rather well , Mr. Manning . In behalf of my colleagues I wish to thank you for your hospitality to us . As you know , we must leave this afternoon . ''