midnight
Preston and his wife , as well as the new-comer , had retired to rest , and the heavy slumber into which both the men had fallen was made soon apparent by their heavy breathing . Noiselessly leaving her bed , Emily put on her clothes in haste , and pushed aside the curtain that had been drawn before the window . Through the distant treetops she saw the newly-risen moon shining feebly . As she stood , leaning out of the window , listening eagerly , and debating the question whether she should venture forth in the silent midnight , a large house-dog , who was on the watch while his master slept , came up , and laying his great head upon the window-sill , looked into her face . Emily patted him , and the dog wagged his tail , seeming much pleased with the notice . No longer hesitating , the girl sprang lightly from the window , and , accompanied by the dog , moved noiselessly in the direction of the stable . Here she was for some time at a loss to determine which of the half-dozen horses it contained had borne her thus far on her journey ; and it was equally hard to find , in the dark , the bridle and saddle for which she sought .