Eight o'clock
Glancing round the cabin , he caught sight of Throppy 's wireless outfit ; soon the two were engaged in an interested discussion on wave-lengths and the effect of atmospheric disturbances . Later he was talking over the lobster law with Jim , and life-insurance with Lane . He seemed to be equally at home on all subjects . Eight o'clock came before they realized it . The stranger 's face suddenly grew somber . `` Boys , '' said he , `` I must be going now . You 've given me a mighty pleasant evening and I sha 'n' t forget it right away .