noon
Out of a bleak and threatening west the wind blew ominously true -- a whole gale , accompanied by a heavy fall of snow . There could be no boat communication with the shore in such a wind , but , as soon as the light allowed , we engaged the Signal Station with a string of flags , and learnt that our orders had not yet come to hand , that they would be communicated by signal , if received during the day . After we had re-stowed sails and secured such gear and tackle as had blown adrift in the night , ` stand by ' was again the order , reluctantly given , and all hands took advantage of the rare circumstance of spare time and a free pump to set our clothes cleanly and in order . Near noon the Mate spied fluttering wisps of colour rising on the signal yard ashore . Steadying himself in a sheltered corner , he read the hoist : W.Q.H.L. -- our number . `` Aft here , you boys , an ' hand flags , '' he shouted . Never was order more willingly obeyed ; we wanted to know .