midnight
Mr. Presby explained his inactivity and want of energy upon philosophical principles , and every body seemed to be satisfied . The salve which the sufferer applied to his wounded members healed the bruises in a few days , and he was again in condition to pursue his wonted sports and pleasures . After the lapse of a week , as the patient exhibited no further signs of the malady , the watch was discontinued ; but Mr. Presby was too enthusiastic in the cause of science to abandon the case so soon . He sat up in his chamber till midnight , with his ears wide open , to catch the slightest indication of a movement on the part of his interesting subject . Every day , Richard and Sandy met ; and they never failed to renew the mutual pledges they had made to be revenged upon `` Old Batterbones . '' The plan was discussed and amended till no further improvement could be made ; and by this time Richard was so far recovered from his injuries as to enable him to take the leading part in its execution . The night was appointed for the purpose , and it was agreed that the boys should meet at a point just below Whitestone , where Richard was to take Sandy into the Greyhound , and proceed to the inlet where they had before landed .