six in the evening
He thought of firing his gun to give his comrades notice ; but if these came up without arms , they would inevitably be torn in pieces , and nothing showed as yet that they were even aware of their new danger . After Louis Cornbutte 's departure , Penellan had carefully shut the cabin door , which opened at the foot of the deck steps . He returned to the stove , which he took it upon himself to watch , whilst his companions regained their berths in search of a little warmth . It was then six in the evening , and Penellan set about preparing supper . He went down into the steward 's room for some salt meat , which he wished to soak in the boiling water . When he returned , he found André Vasling in his place , cooking some pieces of grease in a basin . `` I was there before you , '' said Penellan roughly ; `` why have you taken my place ? ''