midnight
To his intense astonishment and delight , the colonel made the announcement that the south-west laager was to be attempted by surprise that night by a hundred and fifty men with the bayonet alone , the major in command , Captain Roby second , and Captain Edwards and the two subalterns of Roby 's company to complete the little force . `` When do we start , sir ? '' said Roby , with his heart beating fast . `` An hour before midnight , '' said the colonel ; and the major added : `` Without any sound of preparation . The men will assemble , and every precaution must be taken that not one of the blacks gets wind of the attempt so as to warn the enemy of our approach . '' `` I have no more to add , Robson , '' said the colonel . `` You know where to make your advance .