about nine o'clock
On board the _ Avenger _ the enemy and their motions were clearly distinguished , and Cain perceived that he was in an awkward dilemma . That they would be attacked he had no doubt ; and although , at any other time , he would almost have rejoiced in such an opportunity of discomfiting his assailants , yet now he thought very differently , and would have sacrificed almost everything to have been able to avoid the rencontre , and be permitted quietly to withdraw himself from his associates , without the spilling of more blood . Francisco was equally annoyed at this unfortunate collision ; but no words were exchanged between him and the pirate captain during the time that they were on deck . It was about nine o'clock , when having safely passed nearly half through the channel , that Cain ordered the kedge-anchor to be dropped , and sent down the people to their breakfast . Francisco went down into the cabin , and was explaining their situation to Clara , when Cain entered . He threw himself on the locker , and appeared lost in deep and sombre meditation . ` What do you intend to do ? '