four o'clock in the morning
`` We belong to the army of the United States , sir , '' replied Deck . `` Then how do you happen to be here ? '' demanded the colonel in a tone and with a look of great severity . `` It would take some time , Colonel Hickman , to answer your question in full , '' returned Deck ; `` but I will say that we marched and fought yesterday from four o'clock in the morning till dark , and were practically prisoners in the camp of the enemy at the end of the day , but escaped in the night in a boat we took from a steamer alongside the fortifications at Beech Grove . '' `` Excuse me for speaking somewhat abruptly , Lieutenant , and give me your hand ; for I honor every man that fights or works for his country , '' continued the colonel . `` I am somewhat too old to do either , or I should not be at home . '' Deck took the proffered hand , and it was warmly pressed by the planter , and he extended the same courtesy to the sergeant .