noon
The passengers were delighted with the idea of this novel entertainment . Every soul on board -- with the exception of Captain Scottie , who had locked himself in and refused to be disturbed -- was properly advertised of the event . The following day , fortunately , was clear and calm . At noon Gissing blew the syren , fired a rocket from the bridge , and swung the engine telegraph to STOP . The ship 's orchestra , by his orders , struck up a rollicking air . Quickly and without confusion , amid cries of Women and children first ! the passengers filed to their allotted places .