nearly midnight
`` If Mr. Prowler comes , he 'll probably go for the canned vegetables and the biscuit , '' Prescott decided . `` He must already have more meat than he can handle all day to-morrow -- if it does n't spoil . '' So Dick posted himself where he could easily watch the approach of any outsider toward the boxes that served as cupboards for the canned supplies . The time slipped away , until it was nearly midnight , as Prescott knew from stepping into the tent and lighting a match briefly for a swift glimpse at his watch . As Dick came out of the tent he fancied he heard a distant step , crackling on a broken twig . `` If there 's anyone coming I 'd better slip into the shadow of the canvas , '' Prescott told himself , acting accordingly . Presently the stealthy steps sounded nearer to the camp .