midnight
They then contribute a small sum toward a joint fund , to be invested in a bribe for some argus-eyed shipmate , who shall play the part of a spy upon the master-at-arms and corporals while the gaming is in progress . In nine cases out of ten these arrangements are so cunning and comprehensive , that the gamblers , eluding all vigilance , conclude their game unmolested . But now and then , seduced into unwariness , or perhaps , from parsimony , being unwilling to employ the services of a spy , they are suddenly lighted upon by the constables , remorselessly collared , and dragged into the brig there to await a dozen lashes in the morning . Several times at midnight I have been startled out of a sound sleep by a sudden , violent rush under my hammock , caused by the abrupt breaking up of some nest of gamblers , who have scattered in all directions , brushing under the tiers of swinging pallets , and setting them all in a rocking commotion . It is , however , while laying in port that gambling most thrives in a man-of-war . Then the men frequently practice their dark deeds in the light of the day , and the additional guards which , at such times , they deem indispensable , are not unworthy of note . More especially , their extra precautions in engaging the services of several spies , necessitate a considerable expenditure , so that , in port , the diversion of gambling rises to the dignity of a nabob luxury .