noon
`` Why not make the trip this forenoon , '' said Willis , `` and so come around to join you at this mountain over across where you are going for minerals . '' `` That will suit me , '' said Addison . Our plans for the day were laid accordingly ; and half an hour later , Addison and I , with the three girls , set off on our excursion to the mountain side ; while Tom and Willis took the gun and went up the brook , in the direction of the balm o ' Gilead hill . `` We shall get around where you are by noon , '' said Thomas . `` You will hear us shouting for you . '' Our party of five had first to ford the brook , then make a trip of two miles or more through the forest . We took a lunch of bread and cheese , and a dipper along with us , as it was doubtful whether we should return till late in the day .