two o'clock
The whole Braycombe coast for many miles is deeply indented with creeks and coves , and diversified with outstanding rocks and promontories , about the most picturesque and the most dangerous part of our southern shores . Old George decided that probably the object of our search had been driven in by the fitful wind amongst some of the near rocks and creeks , and might , perhaps , be recovered by a careful search . So , warily steered by our experienced sailor , we set ourselves to the work , having scanned , to the best of our ability , the open sea beyond with a pocket telescope . What with the tackings frequently necessary , and the taking down sail in one place , and then putting it up in another , the time passed on rapidly ; and we were quite surprised , as we finished the exploration of one of the little inlets , to hear Groves remark that it was `` nigh upon two o'clock , and that we 'd all be the better of a little food . '' For the first time in our lives we had forgotten to be hungry . It was decided that we should spread the luncheon on a broad flat stone , near which our boat was now curtseying listlessly on the water , and take our repast ashore . George and Ralph lifted out the hamper , and spread the cloth , and arranged the various good things we found inside .