noon
`` How soon are we likely to get into the Zuyder Zee ? '' asked the Count . `` That depends on the continuance of the breeze , '' answered the skipper . `` If it blows fair for a few hours more , we shall be up to the Helder before noon ; but if it shifts ahead , or a calm comes on , I shall have the pleasure of your company for some time longer . '' `` With due respect to you , Captain Jan Dunck , I sincerely hope that the breeze will continue fair , '' said the Count , making a polite bow , as he had no wish to offend the skipper , but felt constrained to speak the truth . `` It is not of you or your galiot that I 'm tired , but of this fidgetty sea which rolls and tumbles her about so thoughtlessly , to say the best of it . '' `` But are you aware , Count , '' said the skipper , `` that the Zuyder Zee can roll and tumble in no gentle fashion ?