about seven in the morning
I gave several hours to the serious consideration of this difficulty ; but I was obliged to relinquish all attempt to supply it ; and , wrapping myself up in my cloak , I struck across the wood towards the setting sun . I passed three days in these rambles , and at length discovered the open country . A great fall of snow had taken place the night before , and the fields were of one uniform white ; the appearance was disconsolate , and I found my feet chilled by the cold damp substance that covered the ground . `` It was about seven in the morning , and I longed to obtain food and shelter ; at length I perceived a small hut , on a rising ground , which had doubtless been built for the convenience of some shepherd . This was a new sight to me ; and I examined the structure with great curiosity . Finding the door open , I entered . An old man sat in it , near a fire , over which he was preparing his breakfast .