eleven o'clock
It is undoubtedly a fact , as was observed in the dialogue just given , that the state of affairs on this property was absolutely fearful . The framework of society was nearly broken up , for such was the heartless rapacity and cruelty -- such the multiplied and ingenious devices by which he harassed and robbed the tenantry , or wreaked his personal vengeance on all who were obnoxious to him or his son , that it was actually impossible matters could proceed much longer in a peaceable state . If the reader will accompany us to a large waste house , from which a man had been some time before ejected , merely because Val had a pique against him , he may gather from the lips of the people themselves , there assembled , on the very night in question , sufficiently clear symptoms of the state of feeling in the neighborhood . The hour at which they assembled , or rather began to assemble , was eleven o'clock , from which period until twelve they came in small groups of two or three at a time ; so as to avoid observation on the way . Some of them had their faces blackened , and others who appeared utterly indifferent to consequences , did not think it worth their while to assume such a disguise . The waste house in which they were assembled , stood on a hillside , about half way between Castle Cumber and Drum Dhu ; so that its isolated situation was an additional proof of their security from , surprise by the bloodhounds . The party were nearly all armed , each with such weapons as he could get , and most of them with fire or side arms , such as they were .