about four o'clock in the morning
Meanwhile preparations were made for the youth 's departure to the University , and in a few weeks Peregrine set out for Oxford in the seventeenth year of his age , accompanied by Mr. Jolter and Pipes , the same attendants who lived with him at Winchester . _ IV . -- Peregrine is Left an Orphan and Marries _ From the University , Peregrine went on a grand tour in Europe , and was only summoned home by a letter from Lieutenant Hatchway representing the dangerous condition of the Commodore . Our hero arrived at the garrison about four o'clock in the morning and found his generous uncle in extremity . Though the Commodore 's speech was difficult , he still retained the use of his senses , and when Peregrine approached , stretched out his hand with manifest signs of satisfaction . In spite of all his endeavours , the tears gushed from the young man 's eyes , and the Commodore , perceiving his distress , made a last effort and consoled him in these words : `` Swab the spray from your bowsprit , my good lad , and coil up your spirits . Many a better man has foundered before he has made half my way ; though I trust , by the mercy of God , I shall be sure in port in a very few glasses , and fast moored in a most blessed riding ; for my good friend Jolter hath overhauled the journal of my sins , and by the observation he hath taken of the state of my soul , I hope I shall happily conclude my voyage , and be brought up in the latitude of heaven .