midnight
Slipping a bridle on his horse that was feeding in the yard , he sprang upon the animal 's back without waiting for a saddle . `` Stay in the cabin , girl , put out the light , and do n't open the door until I come , '' he said and he was gone . As Sammy turned back into the house , from away down in Mutton Hollow , on the night wind , came the sound of guns . It was after midnight when Mr. Howitt was rudely awakened . The bright moon shining through the windows lit up the interior of the cabin and he easily recognized Young Matt standing by the bed , with Pete , who was sleeping at the ranch that night , near by . `` Why , Matt , what is the matter ? '' exclaimed the shepherd , sitting up .