midnight
And not a moment too soon , for the roof of the cabin crashed in on the burning walls ere he had staggered three yards from the scene of his heroic deed , and the fierce flames , leaping higher , conveyed to two anxious watchers at Ellsworth the news that they had succeeded in their damnable crime . Franklin realized that it was best to let them hug that belief to their hearts , so all that he did afterward that night was under the veil of secrecy . He succeeded in getting an old buggy and conveying Dainty to the station , where he placed her on the midnight train and bought her a ticket for Richmond . No one but black mammy was let into the secret , and unseen by any one in the gloom of the midnight hour and in the scarcity of travel that night , she was sent on her way to her mother , Franklin saying to her earnestly : `` Let me advise you , Mrs. Ellsworth , to keep close to your mother , and away from the fiendish enemies who are seeking to compass your death . I will take the best care of your husband , and may God send him recovery from his hurt , that he may restore you to your rightful position , and punish the wretches who have wronged you both ! '' `` Stop ! stranger ; may I speak with you ?