three in the morning
From this we easily lit the lantern : and thenceforward , through a labyrinth of woodland paths , were conducted by its uneasy glimmer . Both booted and great-coated , with tall hats much of a shape , and laden with booty in the form of a despatch-box , a case of pistols , and two plump valises , I thought we had very much the look of a pair of brothers returning from the sack of Amersham Place . We issued at last upon a country by-road where we might walk abreast and without precaution . It was nine miles to Aylesbury , our immediate destination ; by a watch , which formed part of my new outfit , it should be about half-past three in the morning ; and as we did not choose to arrive before daylight , time could not be said to press . I gave the order to march at ease . `` Now , Rowley , '' said I , `` so far so good . You have come , in the most obliging manner in the world , to carry these valises .