4 A.M.
Indeed , it was recorded in Blazing Star that a fortunate early riser had once picked up on the highway a solid chunk of gold quartz which the rain had freed from its incumbering soil , and washed into immediate and glittering popularity . Possibly this may have been the reason why early risers in that locality , during the rainy season , adopted a thoughtful habit of body , and seldom lifted their eyes to the rifted or india-ink washed skies above them . `` Cass '' Beard had risen early that morning , but not with a view to discovery . A leak in his cabin roof -- quite consistent with his careless , improvident habits -- had roused him at 4 A.M. , with a flooded `` bunk '' and wet blankets . The chips from his wood pile refused to kindle a fire to dry his bedclothes , and he had recourse to a more provident neighbor 's to supply the deficiency . This was nearly opposite . Mr. Cassius crossed the highway , and stopped suddenly .