about midnight before
He hesitated for a moment . `` We do n't want the New Texans to know , of course , that you 've sent for the fleet ? '' `` Naturally not . '' `` Well , if I can wait till about midnight before I leave , I can get a boat owned , manned and operated by Solar League people . The boat 's a dreadful-looking old tub , but she 's sound and fast . The gang who own her are pretty notorious characters -- suspected of smuggling , piracy , and what not -- but they 'll keep their mouths shut if well paid . '' `` Then pay them well , '' I said .