three
o'clock
It had risen higher and higher and was now swaying and tugging at the suspension ropes . Both boys alighted and at once began straightening the extension ropes . Here and there where the cordage net was out of place they pulled down the bag and adjusted the rigging . Finally a little after three o'clock , the great case had filled out until its smooth glistening sides resembled the skin of a fat sausage . `` All ready ! '' ordered Ned as he shut of the valve of the cooling and purifying box . `` Now , every man bear a hand . ''