midnight
Notwithstanding the inclemency of the weather , many sought a passage , desirous of reaching the distant city to spend the coming thanksgiving with absent friends . The wind sighed in low , fitful murmurs as it bore the fleecy snow flakes upon its airy pinions , and flung them unceremoniously into the face of the passing traveler , thus warning him of a fiercely coming storm . The officers hesitated , as the ominous sea swell came surging on , and the dashing waves moaning upon the winding shore , seemed shrieking a sad requiem over the departed . But finally the urgency of the passengers was so great , that they concluded to put forth upon the waste of waters and brave the fury of the midnight storm . The bell gave its usual signal , and as its stifled sounds were borne upon the ear by the howling winds , they sounded like a death knell . There were hurrying vehicles , and the busy tread of active feet , and the motley group were all on board , and many sorrowing friends stood upon the shore , breathing a tearful farewell , to the dear ones who were going from them . The man of God was there ; he had committed his interests to the `` God of the winds and the waves , '' and his heart was at peace .