midnight
`` What you say is true enough , Mr. Mulford , '' answered Spike , after a moment of profound reflection , `` and every foot that they come nearer , the less will be our chance . But here is Hempstead Harbour a few leagues ahead ; if we can reach that before the blackguards close , we may do well enough . It is a deep bay , and has high land to darken the view . I do n't think the brig could be seen at midnight by anything outside ; if she was once fairly up that water a mile or two . '' `` That is our chance , sir ! '' exclaimed Mulford cheerfully . `` Ay , ay , I know the spot ; and everything is favourable -- try that , Captain Spike ; I 'll answer for it that we go clear . ''