midnight
If we 'd any idea it was only a boy , and a scapegoat , at that , we could have caught and held him until your arrival . '' `` Well , I could hardly expect that , '' returned the minion of the law , with a good-natured smile . `` Come , Haley , let 's be off . He ca n't have gone far between midnight and now , so we 're apt to overhaul him at some of the farm houses up the valley . Good-by , boys -- see you later ! '' The men tipped their hats to the ladies out of courtesy for their presence , and rode away . `` Hope they do n't see us later , '' said Jim , as he stood with Gerald gazing after their receding forms .