About nine o'clock in the evening
Where he was born , where he had lived , or how he obtained his commission , were secrets locked up in his own breast . Somers had some doubts in regard to him , and was constantly afraid that he should hear more of the captain than it would be pleasant to know . Captain Somers reported his arrangements in due form to the general , and they were approved . About nine o'clock in the evening , he , with his little party , embarked on the river , and the rowers pulled towards the opposite shore . Of course , it was necessary to use the utmost caution ; for a rebel picket on the opposite bank of the river might suddenly put an end to the career of some of the party . `` I think we are making a mistake , Captain Somers , '' said De Banyan in a whisper , when they had gone about half way across the river . `` So do I ; but it is not too late to correct the error , '' replied Somers , as he turned the bow of the boat down the river .