about two in the morning
It was where the elm stood , the subject of Merlin 's rhyme ; and this circumstance sent the current of her thoughts in that direction , where there was so much aliment for her excited fancy . She silently prayed that the tree might be destroyed ; and its towering top , above all others of the wood , held out some hope that her strange wish might be realized . The sound of a man 's voice -- that of Dick of the Muir , as he was styled -- the individual who kept the gate of the Tower -- was heard shouting to some one without , in reply to some request made by the latter . It was now about two in the morning , and Marjory could not conceive what could be the purpose of the stranger 's visit at that dreary hour . `` What want ye wi ' my Leddie at this time , man ? '' said Dick . `` My master 's frae hame , and my commission doesna extend to opening the gate to strangers on night visits . ''