midnight
he added , looking at Nort and Dick . `` We sure did ! '' exclaimed the city lads , much pleased in spite of being weary . A little later , while Bud and his cousins were eating what might be called a midnight lunch that Mrs. Merkel set out for them in the cozy living-room of the ranch house , two cowboys rode off to relieve Babe . `` And now it 's time for you tenderfeet to turn in , '' said Mrs. Merkel to Nort and Dick . `` I told your mother I 'd look after you as I would Bud , if she 'd let you come out , and , now you 're here , I 'm going to keep my word . Turn in , all three of you ! ''