midnight
As a general rule , I have observed , men who are new to backwoods life , live _ at first _ in a species of terrestrial paradise . The novelty and the excitement cause them to revel in all that is enjoyable , and to endure with indifference all that is disagreeable ; sometimes , even , to take pleasure in shewing how stoically they can put up with discomfort . But after a time the novelty and excitement wear away , and then it is usual to hear the praises of Indian life spoken of immediately before and immediately after supper . Towards midnight -- particularly if it should rain , or mosquitoes be numerous -- men change their minds , and begin to dream of home , if they can sleep , or to wish they were there , if they ca n't . '' `` Get out ! you horrid philosopher , '' cried Tom Collin as he gazed wistfully into the iron pot , whose savoury contents , -LRB- i.e. pork , flour , and beans -RRB- , he was engaged in stirring . `` Do n't try to dash the cup of romance from our lips ere we have tasted it .