about midnight
And it was with that same individual in his mind that Darry pushed two of these small bird shells into the barrels of the gun . He did not know that he would care to send even this charge directly at a human being ; but in case it became necessary he wanted to make certain he would do little harm . After that he seemed to feel easier in his mind , for he lay down and was soon fast asleep . Something awoke him about midnight , and thinking he had heard a sound he sat up to listen ; then he heard it again , and felt sure it must be a cough , as of some one partly choking . He was worried and left his lowly bed to go to the door connecting the rooms and listen , but nothing came from beyond . Could the sound come from outside ? He slipped on some of his clothes , and stepping over quietly opened the outer door , looking into the night .