midnight
Agricola carried on his shoulders the sack containing the cord , the hook , and the iron bar ; Dagobert leaned upon the arm of his son , and Spoil sport followed his master . `` The bench , where we sat down , must be close by , '' said Dagobert , stopping . `` Yes , '' said Agricola , looking around ; `` here it is , father . '' `` It is oily half-past eleven -- we must wait for midnight , '' resumed Dagobert . `` Let us be seated for an instant , to rest ourselves , and decide upon our plan . '' After a moment 's silence , the soldier took his son 's hands between his own , and thus continued : `` Agricola , my child -- it is yet time . Let me go alone , I entreat you .