midnight
Though the night was dark and dismal , yet the form of the unknown might now in some degree be ascertained . He appeared to be a horseman of large dimensions and mounted on a black horse of powerful frame . He made no offer of molestation or sociability , but kept aloof on one side of the road , jogging along on the blind side of old Gunpowder , who had now got over his fright and waywardness . Ichabod , who had no relish for this strange midnight companion , and bethought himself of the adventure of Brom Bones with the Galloping Hessian , now quickened his steed in hopes of leaving him behind . The stranger , however , quickened his horse to an equal pace . Ichabod pulled up , and fell into a walk , thinking to lag behind ; the other did the same . His heart began to sink within him ; he endeavored to resume his psalm tune , but his parched tongue clove to the roof of his mouth and he could not utter a stave .