eight o'clock
before
But the night passed quietly . With daybreak they were all astir , but the time before breakfast was spent in an invigorating swim in the Plum . Elizabeth had done herself proud in the way of pancakes this last morning , and the boys did full justice . It was almost eight o'clock before anyone returned to the hangar with any intention of working . After barely half an hour there , chiefly spent in polishing and tightening up nuts and draw-buckles , Mr. Fulton drove them all outdoors . `` Chase off and play , '' he insisted . `` Tod and I will give her the finishing touches ; then you can all come back and help us push her out into the sunlight for the final inspection . ''