five in the morning
It had been observed that , during those few days of hurried packing and preparation , Major Plume had not once gone to Blakely 's quarters . True , he had visited only Dr. Graham , and had begged him to explain that anxiety on account of Mrs. Plume prevented his making the round of farewell calls ; but that he was thoughtful of others to the last was shown in this : Plume had asked Captain Cutler , commander of the post , to order the release of that wretch Downs . `` He has been punished quite sufficiently , I think , '' said Plume , `` and as I was instrumental in his arrest I ask his liberation . '' At tattoo , therefore , the previous evening `` the wretch '' had been returned to duty , and at five in the morning was found hovering about the major 's quarters . When invited by the sergeant of the guard to explain , he replied , quite civilly for him , that it was to say good-by to Elise . `` Me and her , '' said he , `` has been good friends . '' Presumably he had had his opportunity at the kitchen door before the start , but still he lingered , feigning professional interest in the condition of the sleek mules that were to haul the Concord over fifty miles of rugged road , up hill and down dale before the setting of the sun .