midnight
`` Maybe he was detained and could n't get back on time . '' `` When he gets back he 'll find us missing , '' said Harris . `` He will unless he hurries , '' Frank agreed . The minutes passed slowly ; but at last the hands of Frank 's watch pointed to midnight . The lad closed the case of his watch with a snap and rose to his feet . He examined his revolver carefully to make sure it was in working order and then said : `` Time 's up ; may as well be moving . '' The three advanced cautiously to the front door .