midnight
said the executive officer when the work was done . But the crew did not care to pipe down , just then . This was the first time they had ever seen a gale at sea , and there was something grand and sublime in the heaving ocean , and the wild winds that danced madly over the white-crested waves . It was now after midnight , eight bells having struck before the courses were reefed , and the first part of the starboard watch were to have the deck . Mr. Lowington insisted that all others should go below and turn in , assuring them that they would see enough of the gale in the morning , or as soon as their quarter watches were called . The principal and Mr. Fluxion were earnest in their commendation of the behavior of the Young America . She was not only a stiff and weatherly ship , but she behaved most admirably , keeping well up to the wind , and minding her helm .