noon
Later on , when they were back home again , they could break the sad news to him gently , as the officer had suggested . What was the use of spoiling his pleasure for that glorious day ? They might never have another chance to be with the brave fellows of Uncle Sam 's Flying Squadron ; so it was just as well to make the most of their opportunity while it lasted . The Lieutenant tried to coax them to stay longer , but Hugh knew they must be on their way home shortly after noon , much as he wanted to remain . Their folks might be anxious if they did not show up some time that evening ; and the next day would be Sunday , which was pretty strictly observed in their home town . The balance of their stay in the experimental camp was passed in trying to learn all they possibly could about things connected with aviation . `` Those who observe the trend of events closely , '' Lieutenant Green told them , as he only too gladly showed them many clever devices calculated to increase the efficiency of aeroplanes when in action , `` are firmly convinced that should we ever get embroiled in a war with any first-class power , which we all hope will never happen , aeroplanes are bound to occupy a very important place in the field . ''