midnight
`` But do n't let me ever catch you tinkering with the instruments again , '' said Jack 's father warningly , as he gave Jack the message to send . `` Another time it 'll be the woodshed whether you get them together or no . Remember ! '' Shortly after midnight the night following Jack suddenly found himself sitting up in bed , wondering what had awakened him . From the street below came the sound of running feet , simultaneously the window lighted with a yellow glare , and with a bound and an exclamation of `` Fire ! '' Jack was across the room and peering out . `` Jones ' coal sheds !