four o’clock
To tell the truth , Phineas had been a hearty , two-fisted backwoodsman , a vigorous hunter , and a dead shot at a buck ; but , having wooed a pretty Quakeress , had been moved by the power of her charms to join the society in his neighborhood ; and though he was an honest , sober , and efficient member , and nothing particular could be alleged against him , yet the more spiritual among them could not but discern an exceeding lack of savor in his developments . `` Friend Phineas will ever have ways of his own , '' said Rachel Halliday , smiling ; `` but we all think that his heart is in the right place , after all . '' `` Well , '' said George , `` is n't it best that we hasten our flight ? '' `` I got up at four o'clock , and came on with all speed , full two or three hours ahead of them , if they start at the time they planned . It is n't safe to start till dark , at any rate ; for there are some evil persons in the villages ahead , that might be disposed to meddle with us , if they saw our wagon , and that would delay us more than the waiting ; but in two hours I think we may venture . I will go over to Michael Cross , and engage him to come behind on his swift nag , and keep a bright lookout on the road , and warn us if any company of men come on . Michael keeps a horse that can soon get ahead of most other horses ; and he could shoot ahead and let us know , if there were any danger .