midnight
He drew up so suddenly as almost to throw the horses from their feet . `` G'evenin ' , '' ventured Browdie , the elder of the raiders , in a husky voice affecting an untutored accent . He had some special ability as a mimic , and , being familiar with the dialect and manners of the people , this gift greatly facilitated the rustic impersonation he had essayed . `` Ye 're haulin ' late , '' he added , for the hour was close to midnight . `` Yes , stranger ; haulin ' late , from Eskaqua -- a needcessity . '' `` What 's yer cargo ? '' asked Browdie , seeming only ordinarily inquisitive .