half past eleven
`` Josiah Huntington , '' said Moppet promptly ; `` but you heard what Oliver said at supper ? '' `` Yes , '' answered Betty , `` Oliver was so weary that Josiah was to watch until twelve o'clock ; then , at midnight , Reuben was to guard the hall until four in the morning , when Oliver would take his place until breakfast . Did you note the time on the hall clock ? '' `` It was half past eleven , '' said Moppet ; `` the half hour sounded as I rapped . '' Betty sat pondering for a moment , then she slid Moppet gently from her lap to the floor and rose . `` Moppet , '' she said gravely , `` you are a little maid , but you have a true heart , and I believe you can keep a secret . I am going to try to release Captain Yorke , and I think you can help me .