two o'clock Wednesday morning
Ella was clothed in little besides a light wrapper , and had shivered more than once in the night air . George tried to induce her and Mrs. Bodine to accept of the mattress , but they asked as a favor that it might be placed under Mrs. Hunter . He readily complied , saying he would get another for them . At this moment came the ominous groan of the severe shock which occurred at about half-past two o'clock Wednesday morning . To the terrified people it was like the growl of some ravening beast rushing upon them , and a long wailing cry blended with the horrible roar as it swept under and over them , then died away in the northwest . `` Oh , Mr. Houghton , '' sobbed Ella , when her voice could be heard , `` please do n't go away -- please do n't go near a building again . '' `` George , '' added his father , almost sternly , `` not with my consent will you leave me again till we learn more definitely what our fate is to be .