midnight
`` But if you are delayed ? '' `` You must wait patiently for us , '' replied the Lieutenant , `` for if in examining the southern horizon we should see a fire , which is not unlikely this dark night , we should know that we were near the coasts of New Georgia , and then it would be desirable for me to ascertain our position by daylight . In fact , we may be away forty eight hours . If , however , we can get to Cape Michael before midnight , we shall be back at the fort to-morrow evening . So wait patiently , madam , and believe that we shall incur no unnecessary risk . '' `` But , '' added the lady , `` suppose you do n't get back to morrow , suppose you are away more than two days ? '' `` Then we shall not return at all , '' replied Hobson simply .