noon
But they were still in a most serious position . They had been many hours in water which was not now warmed by summer heat , and they were bound to feel the effect of it soon in every bone . Henry glanced up at the heavens . It was far past noon , and the golden sun was gliding down the western arch . `` I think , '' said Henry , `` that it would be best for us to walk , as fast as we can on the back track , and then try to dry out our clothing a little . '' He started at once , and Paul walked swiftly by his side . The rivulets that ran from their clothing decreased to tiny streams , and then only drops fell .