midnight
When , far across the undulating landscape , he heard the long , low whistle of an express that would stop at Hillsdale , he arose and went slowly , with hesitating steps , to the station . Mr. Strong and Marian and the Colonel were there when he came within the circle of light ; and , to his surprise , they greeted him warmly -- for he had feared this meeting , and would have been almost glad to avoid it . Within his own conscience he had been so pitilessly accused that it seemed as though every man and woman must accuse him , also . Through the silence of that midnight hour they stood , speaking nervously , oppressed by the torturing heaviness which accompanies such partings . With an effort Marian turned to him suddenly : `` When will you be coming over , Jeb ? '' He was expecting this question ; before leaving the garden he knew to a certainty that it would be asked , and now answered promptly : `` I wish I were going with you to-night ! But you 're lucky in having had your training , while mine is still to come .