Seven o'clock
The state of the tide , the necessities of the blockade-runners who hoped to escape that night under cover of the confusion caused by the attack , rendered it absolutely necessary that there should be no delay in the departure of the torpedo boat . The time had been set for seven o'clock , as late as practicable , in order to secure the advantage of settled darkness before the blow was delivered . The party on the wharf waited apprehensively a little longer , conversing in low tones as the moments ran away , and there was great anxiety as to the whereabouts of the missing officer . Seven o'clock struck from the ancient church steeple hard by ; still he did not appear . `` General , '' said Lacy , a few moments later , `` if I might suggest , sir -- '' `` Go on . What is it ? '' `` It might be well to send for him . ''