four o'clock
If they are here , they must be found . '' The hours seemed intolerably long to the lads , standing upright and motionless against the wall . No one approached their hiding-place . At four o'clock the general gave orders that his horse and escort should be at the door , and a few minutes afterwards he went out , and the room was left deserted . The midshipmen were now able to stand in easier positions , but they did not venture to leave their hiding-places , in case any one should suddenly return . The hours passed slowly on , and it was nine o'clock before the door opened . It closed again , and a voice asked in low tones whether they were still there .