noon
And a little later the bonds dropped to the ground . But the work had caused his finger tips to bleed . With his hands free , Tom set to work free his feet , and this was not so difficult , although it also took time . Both boys were now hungry once more , and reckoned that it was well past the noon hour . `` I 'll set you free , and then we 'll look around for something to eat , '' said Tom . `` Had n't we better get out as soon as we can ? '' asked his brother .