four o’clock
This Pencroft could not determine . However , as the wind was blowing from the northeast , in all probability the vessel was sailing on the starboard tack . Besides , the wind was favorable for bringing her towards the island , and , the sea being calm , she would not be afraid to approach although the shallows were not marked on the chart . Towards four o'clock -- an hour after he had been sent for -- Ayrton arrived at Granite House . He entered the dining-room saying , -- `` At your service , gentlemen . '' Cyrus Harding gave him his hand , as was his custom to do , and , leading him to the window , -- `` Ayrton , '' said he , `` we have begged you to come here for an important reason . A ship is in sight of the island . ''