about six at night
Our illuminated windows must have been visible not only from the back lane of which Fenn had spoken , but from the court where the farmer 's gig awaited them . In the far end of the firelit room lay my companions , the one silent , the other clamorously noisy , the images of death and drunkenness . Little wonder if I were tempted to join in the choruses below , and sometimes could hardly refrain from laughter , and sometimes , I believe , from tears -- so unmitigated was the tedium , so cruel the suspense , of this period . At last , about six at night , I should fancy , the noisy minstrels appeared in the court , headed by Fenn with a lantern , and knocking together as they came . The visitors clambered noisily into the gig , one of them shook the reins , and they were snatched out of sight and hearing with a suddenness that partook of the nature of prodigy . I am well aware there is a Providence for drunken men , that holds the reins for them and presides over their troubles ; doubtless he had his work cut out for him with this particular gigful ! Fenn rescued his toes with an ejaculation from under the departing wheels , and turned at once with uncertain steps and devious lantern to the far end of the court .