midnight
When Herne comes hack , I will fire the train . '' `` There is much hazard in the scheme , and I fear it will fail , '' replied Fenwolf , after a pause , `` nevertheless , I will assist you . '' `` Then , let us go to work at once , '' said Tristram , `` for we have no time to lose . Herne will be here before midnight , and I should like to have all ready for him . '' Accordingly , they each shouldered a couple of the bags , and returning to the cavern , threaded a narrow passage , and emerged from the secret entrance in the grove . While Fenwolf descended for a fresh supply of powder , Tristram commenced operations . Though autumn was now far advanced , there had been remarkably fine weather of late ; the ground was thickly strewn with yellow leaves , the fern was brown and dry , and the brushwood crackled and broke as a passage was forced through it .