noon
It was blowing hard , but had evidently been blowing much harder , of which fact the condition of the Indiaman gave evidence . A portion of the starboard bulwarks were stove in , one of her quarter boats was shattered , and other slight damages were visible . `` We must be ready for him , sir , at all events , '' said the first officer , looking at his watch . `` It is not far off noon now . '' `` Tell Oliver to bring me my sextant , '' said the captain , as the mate descended from the poop into his cabin . Mr Thudicumb soon returned , bringing his own instrument , and followed by a boy with the captain 's . Continuing their walk , they looked anxiously every now and then at the spot in the heavens where they expected the sun to appear .