midnight
the hypothesis is unlikely . The driver and stoker seem to be the object of their very particular attention . They are two brave Chinamen who have just come on duty , and perhaps Faruskiar is not sorry to see men in whom he can trust , with this imperial treasure and a hundred passengers behind them ! The hour for departure strikes , and at midnight the engine begins to move , emitting two or three loud whistles . As I have said , the night is very dark , without moon , without stars . Long clouds are creeping across the lower zones of the atmosphere . It will be easy for me to enter the van without being noticed .