midnight
`` I know it , Uncle Reuben . You are very good to me ; and I do hope to make myself very useful to you , '' replied the boy . `` You 'll be a fortun ' to me , lad -- an ample fortun ' to me ! But why do n't you go in out of the midnight air ? You ai n't just as strong as Samson , yet , though you 're agwine to be , '' said Gray cheerily . `` I only stopped to stretch my limbs , and -- to help in with the luggage , '' said Ishmael , who was always thoughtful , practical , and useful , and who now stopped to load himself with Hannah 's baskets and bundles before going into the house . `` Now , then , Sam , '' said Gray , turning to the negro , `` look sharp there !