six o'clock
he said . The woman glanced around her . `` I -- I 'm not just sure , preacher . '' `` Have you seen him since six o'clock ? '' `` No -- I -- I ai n't , '' the woman answered . There was something in John 's face which terrified her , though the mere absence of her son gave her no uneasiness . `` Go back , Helen , '' he said , quickly , -- `` go as far as that second house , or I shall not feel sure you are safe .