noon
The nearer they approached the desired haven , the more contradictory and morose Mr. Lootie became . The hope which inspired all with a flutter of joyful anticipation , seemed to awaken no feelings of gratitude and thankfulness in him . He grumbled and snarled at every one and every thing . At noon , a vessel hove in sight . It was the first that had crossed their long and lonely path ; and as she drew near , every one rushed to the deck to look at the stranger . She passed so near , that there was but a narrow path of waves between them ; and her crew , in red flannel shirts and worsted caps , seemed as much swayed by the excitement of the moment , as the half-starved passengers on board the _ Anne _ . The Captain bellowed through his trumpet to enquire her name , port , and destination , as she glided by , and was answered , in the same trumpet tones -- `` The barque _ Mary _ of London , Captain Jones ; freight , timber ; ten days from Quebec -- all well ! ''