nine o'clock in the evening
They heard the guard turned out ; lights passing on the batteries close to them , and row-boats manning . They double-banked their oars , and with the assistance of the ebb tide and obscurity they were soon out of gunshot . They then laid in their oars , shipped their mast , and sailed away from the coast . It was nine o'clock in the evening when they started , and at daylight the French coast was not to be seen . Overjoyed at their escape , they commenced an attack upon the provisions and a small keg of wine ; and perhaps a more joyful breakfast never was made . The sun rose in vapour , the sky threatened , but they were free and happy . The wind freshened , and the boat flew before the gale ; the running seas topping over her stern , and forcing them continually to bale her out ; but all was joy , and freedom turned their `` danger to delight . ''