midnight
We 'll allow things to run along a bit as they are . There 's time enough to worry . '' He rose , but instead of going to his room he strode out of the house and walked northward up the trail , passing through the town and out of sight . Alluna sat huddled up in the doorway , her shawl drawn close about her head , and waited for him until the late sun -- which at this time of year revolves in a great circle overhead -- dipped down below the distant mountains for the midnight hour , then rolled slanting out again a few points farther north , to begin its long journey anew ; but he did not return . At last she crept stiffly in-doors , like an old and weary woman , the look of fright still staring in her eyes . About nine o'clock the next morning a faint and long-drawn cry came from the farthest limits of the little camp . An instant later it was echoed closer , and then a dog began to howl .