noon
However , it is actually yours , in virtue of this bequest . '' A solemn passionless voice seemed to fall on them from the clouds , `` No ; it is Mine . '' MY story must now return on board the _ Vulture . _ Just before noon , the bell the half hours are struck on was tolled to collect the ship 's company ; and soon the gangways and booms were crowded , and even the yards were manned with sailors , collected to see their shipmate committed to the deep . Next came the lieutenants and midshipmen and stood reverently on the deck : the body was brought and placed on a grating . Then all heads being uncovered below and aloft , the chaplain read the solemn service of the dead . Many tears were shied by the rough sailors , the more so that to most of them , though not to the officers , it was now known that poor Billy had not always been before the mast , but had seen better days , and commanded vessels , and saved lives ; and now he had lost his own .