midnight
The major , in the mean time , having succeeded in securing his man , gave a hasty explanation of the matter , and ended by saying : `` There is but one way for us to do , and that is to leave this place at once . Tie those two rebels to some of these trees , and then we 'll be off . '' As soon as this was accomplished , and the major had satisfied himself that there was not the least chance for their escape , he said : `` Now , we shall leave you here . Your friends will probably be along at midnight and liberate you . '' The rebels made no reply , and the fugitives , after collecting their weapons , again set out , taking the lieutenant with them . The major ordered George to lead them by the most direct route to Red River . This was a desperate measure , but their case was also desperate .