twelve o'clock
The two custodians of Jerry and Ben released their hold , and they gladly availed themselves of the opportunity to remove themselves to a safer distance from their late bedchamber . Two fire-engines came thundering up , and streams of water were directed effectively at the burning bales . The flames were extinguished , but not till considerable damage had been done . As the two boys watched the contest between the flames and the engines , from a safe distance , they heard the sonorous clang of the bell in the church-tower , ringing out twelve o'clock . `` Jest my luck ! '' complained Jerry . `` Why could n't the fire have waited till mornin ' ? ''