midnight
They were `` steam launches , '' and were destined for a night attack on the flotilla which I had just passed . Their crews were covered nearly from stem to stern by iron bullet-proof awnings , which , as well as the boats , were painted black . The engines were so constructed as to make the least possible amount of noise , and when speed was reduced no sound was heard save a dull throbbing that was almost drowned by the croaking frogs . It was a little after midnight when these boats set out -- two being meant to attack , and two to remain in support . They had seven miles of river to traverse before reaching the enemy , and it was while they were in the midst of their voyage that I chanced to meet them , clinging to my hen-coop . They came so straight at me that I was on the point of being run down by the leading boat , when I gave a sharp `` halloo ! '' It was replied to by one that indicated surprise , and was decidedly English in tone .