twelve o'clock
There are two events on board of a man-of-war , after which injuries are forgotten , apologies are offered and received , intended duels are suppressed , hands are exchanged in friendship , and good-will drives away long-cherished animosity . One is , after an action -- another , upon the sight of native land , after a protracted absence . Jerry fearlessly ranged up alongside of Stewart , as he looked over the gangway . `` We shall be at anchor by twelve o'clock . '' `` You may bless your stars for it , '' replied Stewart , with a significant smile . The _ Aspasia _ now ran through the Needles , and having successively passed by Hurst Castle , Cowes , and the entrance to Southampton Water , brought up at Spithead , in seven fathoms . The sails were furled , the ship was moored , the boat was manned , and Captain M -- went on shore to report himself to the port admiral , and deliver his despatches .