midnight
The general awoke instantly , sat up and demanded who was there . When the officer explained , he said he was glad that he had been awakened , asked about the disposition of the troops , and gave further commands . He did not go to sleep again . But Harry 's orders carried him far beyond midnight , and he had no thought of sleep . Once more repressed but intense excitement had complete hold of him . He could not have slept had the chance been given to him . The bulk of the army was now in front of Shields , and the pickets were not only in touch , but were skirmishing actively .