nine o'clock
For the danger from Fort Gaines was believed to be less than that from Fort Morgan , though either of them doubtless had the means of sinking the steamer with a single shot . The water was shoal in the Middle Channel , and it was not prudent to attempt to go into the bay at any other time than high tide ; though Captain Breaker was thoroughly acquainted with the channel , having once been engaged in a survey of the shifting shoals in this locality , and he had once before taken the Bellevite by this passage on a trip to New Orleans . As he could not foresee the time of the steamer 's arrival off the bay , he was obliged to consult his almanac , and make his calculations in regard to the tide , which rises and falls less than three feet at this point . It would not be safe to attempt the passage before nine o'clock in the forenoon , and he headed the vessel away from the land . Percy had tried to make the best of his situation , annoying as it was ; and Christy amused him with more Chinese reminiscences . Both of them came on deck at an unusually early hour on the morning that the Sand Island light was made out ; for there was more commotion than usual on board , and even in the cabin , where the owner and commander discussed the situation . `` Here we are , my Chinese friend , '' said Percy , as he joined Christy on deck , and made out the tall tower in the distance .