Ten
o'clock
He listened attentively to each hour of the clock as it struck in the village , and whose sounds were wafted towards him by the night-breeze . He often closed his eyes , and at times fell into that state when it requires painful exertion to combat the power of sleep . His present object was sufficiently important to keep him on the alert , and prevent him losing the opportunity of satisfying his curiosity . Ten o'clock had long struck ; all was as still as death in the castle . He jumped up , took off his heavy boots and spurs , threw his cloak over him , and cautiously opened the door of his room . He held his breath , fearing to make the least noise ; the hinges of the door creaked -- he stopped to listen whether any one had heard the treacherous sound . Every thing remained quiet ; the moon threw a dim light on the landing place , and Albert thought himself fortunate she had not betrayed him a second time .