nearly noon
Without these it will be very guess-work . Fortunately , I understand the French ; so that , if they are found , there will not be much difficulty in the matter . '' As soon as Bill heard this , he hurried below , and soon returned with several books , a chart , and a quadrant . `` The first thing is to know whereabouts we are , '' said the lieutenant ; `` and , as it must be nearly noon , I will take an observation at once . You must lift me up , though , lads ; I am too weak to stand . '' Supported by Jack and Bill Sunnyside , the lieutenant leant against the companion-hatch , and made the required observation . `` I was only just in time , though , '' he remarked .