noon
`` I can only say , that I hope so , '' I replied , `` as I should profit much by your experience , and hope to prove to you that , if necessary , I shall not be a bad second . '' And as I made this reply , we arrived at the house where we had lodged . Captain Levee was a man , who , when once he had decided , was as rapid as lightning in execution . He sent for a dealer in horses , concluded a bargain with him in five minutes , paid his lodgings and all demands upon him , and before noon we were both on board of our respective vessels . But , previous to the seamen coming up for our boxes , I observed to him , `` I should wish , Levee , that you would let me know , if it is only at a rough guess , what sum I may be indebted to you ; as I may be fortunate , and if so , it will be but fair to repay you the money , although your kindness I can not so easily return . '' `` I 'll tell you exactly , '' said Levee . `` If I take no prizes this cruise , and you do make money , why then we will , on our return , have another frolic somewhere , and you shall stand treat .