4
a.m.
`` Coffee for the men , '' said Captain Templeton . The morning coffee was served on deck in the darkness . Lights appeared in the distance , and presently another destroyer joined the Plymouth . Running lights of two more appeared as the clock struck 4 a.m. Captain Templeton signalled the engine room for two-thirds speed ahead . Running lights were blanketed on the four destroyers , and the ships fell into column . Lieutenant Chadwick felt a drop on his face . He held out a hand .