midnight
`` There are but two courses open to us , men of Aescendune -- to return to our haunts in the woods , to be hunted out in the next dry season like vermin ; the other , to repair to the Camp of Refuge . I , for one , have decided ; I will no longer hide in the Dismal Swamp like a brock -- I will accept the invitation of Abbot Thurstan , and live or die by the side of the brave Hereward . '' `` And I , '' `` and I , '' `` and I. '' `` We can not all go , '' said Wilfred ; `` some must remain to escort our women and children to the woods , and to defend them there , if need be , till the tide of victory , of which our guest has told us , reaches these parts . This task befits the oldest men amongst us ; but let each man make his choice this evening , for by midnight all should be settled , and we who go should be on our way to the east . '' `` And are we to leave Aescendune to the foe ? '' `` Nay , this accursed monument of Norman tyranny , this castle shall fall , the flames shall consume it this night , and we will give every house , barn , and stable to the flames also . The Normans shall find poor lodgings for man and beast when they come tomorrow .