about five in the evening
The broad lateen sails were spread , and the slaves sat quietly before their oars , ready to row , though for hour after hour there was no need of rowing . The six vessels kept within easy distance of each other , and Captain Salt , on the deck of _ L'Heureuse _ , directed their movements with a serenity that cheered even the poor men on the benches below him . As the awning shook and the masts creaked gently above them , they stretched their limbs , drew long breaths , and felt that after all it was good to live . So steady did the wind keep all day that about five in the evening they brought the English coast in sight . It was the opinion of all the captains that they should run up for Harwich at once ; but the Englishman had other views . `` It is too early , '' he told M. de la Pailletine . `` There are cruisers about , and if we are seen the game will be spoiled . ''