midnight
I found that the road was being mended , and by the fire lay a watchman in a big tub . Just as I came up he was eating his supper . He was a great , rough man , but I looked in his face and thought it seemed good , so I asked him if he 'd let me rest a little . Of course he was surprised at seeing me there , for it must have been midnight , and when he asked me about myself I told him the truth , because he spoke in a kind way . Then he stopped eating and gave me what was left ; it was a bit of fat bacon and some cold potatoes ; but how good it was , and how good _ he _ was ! To this moment I can see that man 's face . He got out of his tub and made me take his place , and he wrapped me up in something he had there .