noon
It must be about ten miles to leeward . A break in the clouds soon left it more distinct . Some promontory it must be upon the American coast . Without sails , of course , the `` Pilgrim '' had no chance of bearing down direct upon it ; but at least there was every reason to believe that she would soon reach some other portion of the shore ; perhaps before noon , certainly in a few hours , they must be close to land . The pitching of the ship made it impossible for Mrs. Weldon to keep safe footing on the deck ; accordingly , at a sign from Dick , Hercules led her back again to her cabin . Dick did not remain long at the bow , but went thoughtfully back to the wheel . He had , indeed , a tremendous responsibility before him .