noon
`` Strike three bells , '' added the commander ; and the steamer began to back her screw . As soon as the Bronx had lost her headway , the screw was stopped , and a drift lead was dropped into the water . A sharp lookout had been kept , and some flickering lights had been reported . The weather had become cloudy since noon , but there was no fog and no wind . `` You will let Mr. Pennant command this expedition , Mr. Flint , '' said Christy . `` He will take the first cutter , with ten men , including Quartermaster Vincent and Bornhoff . '' The third lieutenant was sent for , and his instructions were given to him .