midnight
Under a hayrack was a large child 's cradle : it was of a remarkable size , having been made for twins . Near it was a low wooden sheep-tank , half filled with water , and which had been placed there for the refreshment of the dog and his feathered friends , who were roosting in the rack . The pious innkeeper very gently lowered to the ground the chair on which Essper was soundly sleeping ; and then , having crossed himself , he took up our friend with great tenderness and solicitude , and dexterously fitted him in the huge cradle . About an hour past midnight Essper George awoke . He was lying on his back , and very unwell ; and on trying to move , found that he was rocking . His late adventure was obliterated from his memory ; and the strange movement , united with his peculiar indisposition , left him no doubt that he was on board ship ! As is often the case when we are tipsy or nervous , Essper had been woke by the fright of falling from some immense height ; and finding that his legs had no sensation , for they were quite benumbed , he concluded that he had fallen down the hatchway , that his legs were broken , and himself jammed in between some logs of wood in the hold , and so he began to cry lustily to those above to come down to his rescue .