midnight
That 's one the things we 're all wild to do -- learn to handle a rifle . But do n't let 's begin till Jim gets well . '' A curious expression passed over Mrs. Ford 's face . She was the only one present who knew of Jim 's midnight escape . The knowledge had almost miraculously been kept from Lemuel and by the master 's express orders . Whatever that talkative ranchman knew , all the world knew , as fast as his tongue could tell it . All had been so quiet in the sick room that the nurse had supposed her patient fallen asleep ; and it was not till daybreak that she discovered his absence .