midnight
`` He was soon beyond harm , and now travelled at his ease . He had heard of a Mr. Young , who lived at a distance , in a direction somewhat different from that which he was taking ; and as he was said to be a true whig -- he concluded to repair to him , and to concert measures to take the company of tories , at the time of their meeting . `` With this resolution he again altered his course , so as to strike the road leading to Mr. Young 's . Unexpected difficulties , however , impeded his course -- hills , woods , streams , and before he reached the house , it was near midnight . `` It so happened , fortunately , that Mr. Young was still up , although his family had all retired . A light was still burning , and Crosby made for the door , which led into the room where Mr. Young sat . `` He gave a gentle rap at the door , which was soon cautiously opened -- _ cautiously _ , because it was now late -- and , in those times , no one knew when he was safe .