two o'clock
At one o'clock they were at their headquarters , killing time and waiting . Jack 's nerves once more began showing signs of being frayed , or `` ragged , '' as he called it . He jumped at the least unusual sound , and alternately looked expectant and despairing . It was now close to two o'clock , and as yet there was no sign of relief . Jack jumped up for the twentieth time and started to walk back and forth , while others among the airmen were gathering their belongings together , preparatory to a change of base . Then a messenger was seen hurrying toward them . Jack became almost wild with excitement , until he knew for a fact the notifications had arrived .