ten o'clock
The sullen dawn uncurtained a waste of slag-coloured , heaving waters . The gale had spent its sudden fury , as though its work were now accomplished , but the sky was grey and inhospitable . Matheson raised himself on his knees on the keel of the boat again and again to search around , but no sail or steamer-smoke gave hope of rescue . It was not until ten o'clock that a trawler came within distance of seeing them , but apparently their signals of distress were not noticed , for the fishing vessel passed on to its work and disappeared over the horizon . A few fitful gleams of sunlight mocked their shiverings with promise of warmth -- promise unfulfilled . Their brandy was now exhausted , and some ship 's biscuits in the boatswain 's pocket were sodden and uneatable . Thirst began to add to the horrors of the situation .