four o’clock in the afternoon
The propeller was set in motion . The Nautilus swiftly retreated , putting us outside the range of the vessel 's shells . But the chase continued , and Captain Nemo was content to keep his distance . Near four o'clock in the afternoon , unable to control the impatience and uneasiness devouring me , I went back to the central companionway . The hatch was open . I ventured onto the platform . The captain was still strolling there , his steps agitated .