about twelve o'clock at night
The labourers digged at least six feet deep , and then we met with a coffin ; but which , in regard it was not heavy , we did not open , which we afterwards much repented . `` From the cloisters we went into the abbey church , where , upon a sudden , -LRB- there being no wind when we began , -RRB- so fierce and so high , so blustering and loud a wind did rise , that we verily believed the west end of the church would have fallen upon us . Our rods would not move at all ; the candles and torches , also , but one were extinguished , or burned very dimly . John Scott , my partner , was amazed , looked pale , knew not what to think or do , until I gave directions and command to dismiss the demons ; which , when done , all was quiet again , and each man returned unto his lodging late , about twelve o'clock at night . I could never since be induced to join with any such like actions . `` The true miscarriage of the business was by reason of so many people being present at the operation ; for there was about thirty , some laughing , others deriding us ; so that , if we had not dismissed the demons , I believe most part of the abbey church would have been blown down . Secrecy and intelligent operators , with a strong confidence and knowledge of what they are doing , are best for the work . ''