midnight
`` Money could not pay for those last , '' Elsie said , low and tremulously , as she looked at her three tall sons through a mist of unshed tears ; `` and I will gladly help the Edna 's captain to meet the damages incurred in his efforts to save them . '' `` Just like you , mother , '' Edward said , giving her a look of proud , fond affection . `` I entirely approve , and shall be ready to contribute my share , '' said her father . `` But it is very late , or rather early -- long past midnight -- and we should be getting to bed . But let us first unite in a prayer of thanksgiving to our God for all His mercies , especially this -- that our dear boys are restored to us unharmed . '' They knelt , and led by him , all hearts united in a fervent outpouring of gratitude and praise to the Giver of all good . `` Hitherto hath the Lord helped us . ''