twelve o'clock
In the steerage , each berth had its own number , which was also applied to a locker , and a seat at one of the mess tables . When the drawing was completed each student had his berth , his clothes locker , and his seat at meals . Many of them were extremely dissatisfied when they found that they had been separated from their `` cronies ; '' but the principal was firm , and would not allow a single change to be made . By this time it was twelve o'clock , and Boatswain Peaks piped all hands to muster . The ensign was hoisted , and saluted with three cheers , in which all hands , young and old , joined . When this ceremony was finished , the crew were piped to dinner , and the officers went to their cabin , where the steward had set the table for them for the first time . They dined like lords , though upon the same fare as their companions in the steerage .