midnight
`` As I say , it seems impossible to come up with this raider by speed , so she must be captured or sunk by strategy . Now , I 'll explain the plans to you , that you may know what to do and what will be expected of you . '' Lord Hastings talked slowly for several hours , and the lads listened with unflagging interest . When His Lordship had finished it was almost midnight . `` Now , are you sure you understand ? '' he asked , getting to his feet . `` Perfectly , sir , '' was the reply .