one o'clock
He was absent for some time , but soon appeared with two men . `` Come on , '' said Ralph , as he ascended the ladder . The men hesitated for a moment , and followed , as an officer appeared and invited them to come up . During the next hour or more every field glass on board ship was put into use , and many were the weary arms that used them until the luncheon hour arrived at one o'clock . The captain , knowing how trying the constant watching must be to civilians who are not used to this work , appointed two watches , so they might relieve each other every hour . The boys went to the dining room , and as Mr. Elton and his family sat at the captain 's table , the latter took occasion during the meal to refer to Ralph and Alfred 's services on the bridge in commendatory terms , which was greatly appreciated by their parents . `` I am curious to know , '' said Ralph , `` what the officer meant when he said ` two points to starboard . ' ''