six o'clock
This strange act was perfectly understood by the group , who knew that in that intensely dry heat the danger of exposure was lessened by active exercise and the profuse perspiration that followed it . In another moment the stranger had reached their side , dripping as if rained upon , mopping his damp curls and handsome bearded face with his linen coat , as he threw himself pantingly on the ground . `` I struck out over here first , boys , to give you a little warning , '' he said , as soon as he had gained breath . `` That engineer will be down here to take charge as soon as the six o'clock stage comes in . He 's an oldish chap , has got a family of two daughters , and -- I -- am -- d -- d if he is not bringing them down here with him . '' `` Oh , go long ! '' exclaimed the five men in one voice , raising themselves on their hands and elbows , and glaring at the speaker .