a quarter after nine
I measured off a distance of four miles with the dividers , and marked it off _ above _ the mouth of the creek ; then applied the parallel ruler and found the course . `` It is exactly south-east , '' said I ; `` and it will take us close past the southern extremity of this small island . '' `` That is quite right , '' remarked Smellie , who had been watching me ; `` and if we happen to sight the land in passing that point it will be an assurance that , so far , we have been steering our proper course . But -- bless me , '' -- looking at his watch -- `` it is a quarter after nine . I had no idea it was so late . Run away , Mr Hawkesley , and make your preparations . Put on your worst suit of clothes , and throw your pea - jacket into the boat .