noon
I was invited to come on board whenever there was an opportunity during the voyage . `` We are not cramped , you see , '' observed Newall , casting his eye over the spacious decks , `` so you will not crowd us ; and if you can not bring us news , we can exchange ideas . '' True to his word , old Bob came alongside the next morning , and told me that he had found out the _ Barbara _ , and would put me on board in good time for breakfast . I found Captain Hassall very anxious at my non-appearance , and on the point of sending the second officer on shore to look for me , as it was expected that the convoy would sail at noon ; indeed , the _ Active _ frigate , which was to convoy us , had Blue Peter flying at her mast-head , as had all the merchantmen . `` You 'd have time to take a cruise about the fleet , and I 'll spin you no end of yarns if you like to come , sir , '' said old Bob , with a twinkle in his eye , as his wherry was see-sawing alongside in a manner most uncomfortable to a landsman . `` No , thank you , Bob ; I must hear the end of your yarns when I come back again to old England ; I 'll not forget you , depend on it . '' Captain Hassall had not recovered his equanimity of temper , which had been sorely ruffled at having had two of his best men taken off by a press-gang .