About midnight
The last fond look was given , white handkerchiefs fluttered a moment in the sweeping blast , and the last farewell had passed between many fond , loving hearts . The boat pursued her dangerous way , amid `` the windy storm and tempest , '' and hope animated their bosoms , and some felt sure they should arrive in safety . The storm and darkness increased , the wind blew with greater violence , and the tumultous sea hove up a hollow , bellowing sound , and seemed threatening swift destruction . About midnight the boat became unmanageable , and it became evident to all on board , that many , if not all , must perish . O , who may paint the agony of that fearful night ? when death was heralding his approach , in the loud surging of the ruthless blast , and the deep toned thunder of the many voiced waters , as they dashed their giant waves against the ill-fated bark , that groaned and trembled beneath their mighty pressure . Mingling with the tumultous groans of troubled nature , arose a fearful cry , from lips white with fear .