about two o'clock
Jack Carleton and his father arrived from the country above Lone Cabin and Burnt Pine , a few minutes after Brian Oakley reached the ranch . It was agreed that Henry should join the searchers at Pine Glen , at daybreak -- lest any one should have seen the artist 's camp-fire , that night , and so lose precious time going to it -- and that Jack should accompany the Ranger to Granite Peak . Henry Carleton had gone on his way to Pine Glen , and Brian Oakley and Jack were in the saddle , ready to start up the canyon , the next morning , when a messenger from the Sheriff arrived . An automobile had been seen returning from the mountains , about two o'clock that night . There was only one man in the car . `` Jack , '' said the Ranger , `` Aaron has got hold of the right end of this , with his mirror flashes . You 've got to go up the canyon alone .