noon
She had , besides , eight guns pointing out at the sides , and was able to defend herself against any ordinary enemies ; indeed , in those days when pirates and buccaneers abounded , it was necessary for merchant vessels which had rich freights to guard to be well-armed , especially when they sailed alone , without convoy of a man-of-war . As the wind was from the northward , as soon as they got clear of the Severn all sail was hoisted , and they stood down the British Channel , and Roger walked the deck with no little satisfaction at finding himself at length on board ship . The following day they were out of sight of land . When Roger saw the Captain and his mates bring up their quadrants on deck just before noon to make an observation , he brought up his , and began in a methodical way to make preparations for taking one also . `` What , youngster , have you been at sea before ? '' asked the Captain . `` No , sir , but I have studied navigation , and I want to put my knowledge into practice . ''