eight o'clock
But I have kept you too long . God bless you , sir ; remember my poor mother , and be sure you meet me on the forecastle to-morrow morning . '' The fatal morning came . It was eight o'clock . The gun fired -- the signal for punishment flew at our mast-head . The poor men gave a deep groan , exclaiming , `` Lord have mercy upon us ! -- our earthly career and troubles are nearly over ! ''