nearly midnight
They could make out the little village of negro cabins which lay between them and the planter 's house , and they directed their steps towards it . It was but a short walk , and they soon reached the lane that extended between the rows of huts . The lieutenant took his two revolvers from his hip pockets , and examined them as well as he could in the dark , and Mike did the same , for it was necessary to be prepared for whatever might happen . The village was as silent as though it were entirely deserted ; but it was nearly midnight , and doubtless they were asleep in the cabins . They entered one . It was still and dark within the house . Mr. Pennant had brought with him a small lantern , which he lighted where the glare of the match could not be seen ; but it revealed nothing to the inquirers .