midnight
Although Jake spoke in a positive tone Teddy and Neal were far from feeling comfortable in mind ; but , as he had said , nothing different could be done , and each tried to hide his fears from the other . The weight of the wind increased as the night advanced , and by the words of caution which the sailors uttered from time to time , the boys knew that those who should best understand such matters were anxious regarding the outcome of this night run . Now and then a small quantity of water would dash over the side ; but it was quickly bailed out , and , as one of the men said , `` did more good than harm , for it gave them something to do . '' Notwithstanding the gravity of the situation , Neal and Teddy fell asleep before midnight , therefore they were unconscious of the fight which their companions were making for life . It was necessary the frail craft should be kept dead before the wind ; otherwise she would have been swamped by the following waves , which were now running dangerously high , and the skill of the helmsman was all that prevented her from destruction . Not for a single moment during the hours of darkness was it safe to relax the vigilance , and the constant strain on one 's nerves was more fatiguing than the real labor . Just as the day was breaking Neal awoke , and then he aroused Teddy by asking Jake : `` Can you see the other boats ? ''