2:30
I worked in my stateroom until noon without seeing Captain Nemo even for an instant . Nobody on board seemed to be making any preparations for departure . I still waited for a while , then I made my way to the main lounge . Its timepiece marked 2:30 . In ten minutes the tide would reach its maximum elevation , and if Captain Nemo had n't made a rash promise , the Nautilus would immediately break free . If not , many months might pass before it could leave its coral bed . But some preliminary vibrations could soon be felt over the boat 's hull .