midnight
When these arrangements had been completed , the two men stalked into the open , clearing away , here and there , the scattered underbrush . From the opposing camp came the booming of war-drums and the voices of the priests stirring the people to anger . `` Worst of it is they 'll come in rushes , '' Bill complained as they walked back with shouldered axes . `` And wait till midnight , when the light gets dim for shooting . '' `` Ca n't start the ball a-rolling too early , then . '' Bill exchanged the axe for a rifle , and took a careful rest . One of the medicine-men , towering above his tribesmen , stood out distinctly .