midnight
You will see what will ensue . ' And without another word he dismissed him . `` Osmond told his comrades what the forester had said , and though they were filled with alarm , they resolved upon compliance . At midnight , therefore , they rode towards the tree with the black hounds in leash , and leading Herne 's favourite horse , saddled and bridled . As they drew near , they again saw the terrible shape stalking round the tree , and heard the fearful imprecations . `` His spells ended , Herne called to Osmond to bring him his steed ; and the old man tremblingly obeyed . In an instant the mysterious being vaulted on its back , and in a voice of resistless authority cried , ` To the forest !