about
midnight
The general now summoned one of his staff , and turned the lads over to the latter with this injunction : `` Have them sent to Posen . Instruct Commander Friech that they must be well guarded , but treated with kindness . '' He bowed gravely to both lads , who saluted and followed the other officer from the German commander 's quarters . `` You will remain in my quarters until to-night , '' said the officer to the three friends , `` and you probably will start on your journey about midnight . There is a detachment leaving about that time . '' He conducted the three and the dog to his tent , where their wounds were dressed and a guard was stationed over them . Then they were left to themselves .