midnight
In the midst of one of these pauses , a yell like that of savage delight arose in the fields . It was succeeded by the death-like and portentous calm , which had rendered the time since the momentary attack even more alarming than when the danger had a positive and known character . But all the attention the most intense anxiety could now lend , furnished no additional clue to the movement of their foes . For many minutes , the quiet of midnight reigned both within and without the defences . In the midst of this suspense , the latch of the door was lifted , and their messenger appeared with that noiseless tread and collected mien which distinguish the people of his race . `` Thou hast met the warriors of thy tribe ? '' hastily demanded the stranger .