midnight
He would first satisfy himself she was there , then surround the house with sentries so that she could not escape , while he , with the officer of the day and the corporal of the guard , entered the house and confronted him and her . _ That _ would wind up Mr. Hayne 's career beyond question : nothing short of dismissal could result . Over he went , full of his project , listened at Hayne 's like the eaves-dropping sneak he was , saw again the shadow of the graceful form and heard the silvery , happy laugh , and then it was he sent for Rayner . It was near midnight when he led his forces to the attack . A light was now burning in the second story , which he thought must be Sam 's ; but the lights had been turned low in the parlor , and the occupants had disappeared from sight and hearing . By inquiry he had ascertained that Hayne 's bedroom was just back of the parlor . A man was stationed at the back door , others at the sides , with orders to arrest any one who attempted to escape ; then softly he stepped to the front door , telling Rayner to follow him , and the corporal of the guard to follow both .