six o'clock in the morning
`` In your bunks , '' said the skipper brutally . `` Cast off there . '' The men obeyed , grinning , and the schooner was soon threading her way in the darkness down the river , the skipper listening somewhat nervously for the first intimation of his captive 's awakening . He listened in vain that night , for the prisoner made no sign , but at six o'clock in the morning , when the Fearless , coming within sight of the Nore , began to dance like a cork upon the waters , the mate reported hollow groans from the cabin . `` Let him groan , '' said the skipper briefly , `` as holler as he likes . '' `` Well , I 'll just go down and see how he is , '' said the mate . `` You stay where you are , '' said the skipper sharply .