midnight
A message from the Queen arrived while they were at dessert . Her Majesty offered her compliments to the two travellers , and expressed her wishes for their safe and successful journey . This , of course , rendered imperative fresh toasts to `` Her most gracious Majesty . '' At midnight , after touching farewells and warm shaking of hands , the guests separated . The boats of the Resolute were in waiting at the stairs of Westminster Bridge . The captain leaped in , accompanied by his officers and passengers , and the rapid current of the Thames , aiding the strong arms of the rowers , bore them swiftly to Greenwich . In an hour 's time all were asleep on board .