The air that came through the holes in the ceiling was a little cooler by night, enough for senses trained to preternatural acuteness by long imprisonment to tell it.

The guard always came about eight o'clock with Ned's supper and they chose that time for the attempt.
Obed White entered Ned's cell about six o'clock.

The boy could scarcely restrain himself and the man's blue eyes were snapping with excitement.
But Obed patted Ned on the shoulder.
"We must both keep cool," he said.

"The more haste the less likely the deed.

The first man comes in with the tray carrying your food.