noon
It was thought desirable not only to see Waally well clear of the group , but to force him to pass off to the northward , in order that he might not again approach the Reef , as well as to give him so much annoyance on his retreat , as to sicken him of these expeditions for the future . For such a service the schooner was much the handiest of all the vessels of the colonists , since she might be worked by a couple of hands , and her armament was quite sufficient for all that was required of her , on the occasion . Brown was every way competent to command , as Betts well knew , and he received the females on board the Neshamony , and put about , leaving the schooner to turn to windward . Bridget reached the Reef before it was noon . All the proceedings of that day had commenced so early , that there had been time for this . The governor saw the Neshamony . as she approached , and great , uneasiness beset him He knew she had not been as far as the Peak , and supposed that Waally 's fleet had intercepted her , Betts coming back for reinforcements .