A quarter to twelve
I have several , and each is prepared to fire twenty shots by a mere movement of the trigger , the requisite force of air being placed in a hollow of the butt end ; but all these mysteries will become plain to you before you have been long with me , '' answered Captain Vindex . `` What time is it ? '' asked Mont. . Looking at his watch , the captain answered : `` A quarter to twelve , or near midday . '' `` If you want to give me a treat , '' said Mont , `` I wish you would go up to the surface and let me have a look at the sea , and breathe the fresh air . '' `` Certainly . Come with me to the engine room . ''