noon
asked Ned quizzically . `` Certainly not the coffee , '' replied the Professor in a tone of reproof . The meal was finished with many a jest and the pack divided up into bundles so that each should have his share to carry , after which the lads took up their return tramp . They arrived at the mountain trail shortly before noon . `` Where 's the guide ? '' asked Tad , glancing about . `` Probably asleep somewhere , '' replied Ned .