a quarter to four
Now , they knew that it was not advisable to stop long at any river town , for fear of trouble with some of the rougher element that haunted the docks , but as some of their supplies had become low , and needed replenishing , they drew in , and Maurice went ashore to make a purchase , while Thad guarded the boat . Contrary to their fears nothing happened to give them cause for alarm , and as for the fellows around the landing , Thad found them about on a par with the usual loungers , good-natured chaff predominating . Indeed , one of them even made him a present of a little yellow cur that had a pair of bright eyes and an affectionate muzzle , which tickled Thad immensely , he had longed so much for a pet . They got away from Hickman at a quarter to four , with a clear sky and frosty atmosphere that promised good sailing weather on the morrow . The yellow dog was immediately named Dixie , and took to his new title from the start , being a lively little chap , full of fun , and as frisky as they make them . He promised to be great company for the boys , and something of a watchdog , too , when the occasion warranted it , for his sharp bark upon hearing any foreign sound was enough to arouse the heaviest sleeper . Thad declared he would now be able to sleep with both eyes shut , for up to this time he had been compelled to keep one half open .