noon
To their unspeakable delight , they at length see the savages bundle back into their canoes , and , pushing off , paddle away out of the cove . As the last boat-load of them disappears around the point of rocks , Captain Gancy fervently exclaims , `` Again we may thank the Lord for deliverance ! '' As soon as they are convinced that the canoes are gone for good , Seagriff counsels immediate setting out on the journey so unexpectedly delayed . It is now noon , and it may be night ere they reach their destination . So says he , an assertion that seems strange , as he admits the distance may be but a few hundred yards , certainly not over a mile . They are about taking up their bundles to start , when a circumstance arises that causes further delay ; this time , however , a voluntary and agreeable one . In a last glance given to the cove ere leaving it , two flocks of gulls are seen , each squabbling about something that floats on the surface of the water .