noon
The loss of a vessel , under such circumstances , produces an effect like a sudden death among companions . It is a fate all may meet with , and it induces reflection and sadness . Still , the English did not give up the hope of rescuing some unfortunate wretch , clinging to a spar , or supporting himself by supernatural efforts , for several hours . At noon , however , the ship squared away and ran for Naples before the wind , being drawn aside from her course by another chase , in which she succeeded better , capturing a sloop-of-war , which she carried in several days later . The first act of Cuffe , on anchoring in the fleet , was to go on board the Foudroyant , and report himself and his proceedings to the rear-admiral . Nelson had heard nothing of the result , beyond what had occurred at the islets , and the separation of the ships . `` Well , Cuffe , '' he said , reaching out his remaining hand kindly to his old Agamemnon , as the other entered the cabin -- `` the fellow has got off , after all !