midnight
He had made a two days ' journey to reach the ranch , but that was because the laden mules were slow . Before dark he would be on the high road , and after that he could not lose his way . After all , perhaps it was better to reach Bleachers at night , and trust to rousing up the people in the one tavern of the place . It was after midnight when his task was accomplished , and having seen to the accommodation of a very tired and hungry horse , Stranleigh threw himself down , dressed as he was , upon the bed to which he was shown by a sleepy ostler . He had had quite enough equestrian exercise for one day . Ten o'clock had struck next morning before he woke , and went down to breakfast . His mind had become clarified , and he knew now exactly what he meant to do .