midnight
`` However , we have the consolation that we have done all we could , and I am sure that we shall do so in the future . '' Gervaise had charged Ralph to say nothing about the object of his mission , and the general supposition was that he had sailed to endeavour to purchase some bullocks , as the supply of meat was nearly exhausted . Ralph himself had let drop a few words to this effect , and had indeed been charged by Gervaise to bring off a few oxen if they could be obtained without loss of time . Gervaise was on deck at midnight , and soon afterwards the beat of oars was heard . It was a still night , and one of the knights on watch remarked to him , `` It seems to me , Sir Gervaise , that the sound is a confused one , and that there must be several vessels rowing . Shall I call up our companions ? It may be that it is the pirate fleet coming out . ''