midnight
`` Yes , and always shall be , '' answered the major , coolly , `` until we are safe at the North . But what is the matter now -- any thing new ? '' `` Yes , '' replied Frank , speaking in a whisper , lest he should be overheard . `` Last night I discovered that there is a plot on foot to recapture us , and the attempt is to be made at midnight . These men we found here are not deserters , as they claim to be , but still belong to the army . '' The major , as if not at all concerned , raised the cup to his lips and slowly drained it , keeping his eyes fastened on Frank , who finally began to grow impatient , and inquired : `` What shall we do to defeat them ? '' `` Keep cool , for one thing , '' answered the major .