midnight
Over all , the young moon shed a pale , soft light , threw into deep shadow the hills towards the north , which rose abruptly to a height of 3000 feet , and tipped with a silver edge the peak of Monte Diavolo , whose lofty summit overlooks all the golden land between the great range of the Sierra Nevada and the ocean . It was a scene of peaceful beauty , well fitted to call forth the adoration of man to the great and good Creator . Doubtless there were some whose hearts rose that night above the sordid thoughts of gain and gold ; but few such were recognisable by their fellow-men , compared with the numerous votaries of sin and so-called pleasure . Towards midnight , Captain Bunting turned in , ordering the steward to call him at daybreak ; and shortly afterwards the mate retired , having previously looked round the deck and spoken the watch . A few minutes after , Elliot and his comrades appeared on deck , with their boots and small bundles in their hands . `` Is all right ? '' whispered Elliot .