noon
A cup of emerald hung by a golden chain near the fountain , and invited him to drink . His hand already held the cup filled , when suddenly a shuddering seized him . He poured the water away , and dropped the cup , saying to himself , `` It is still cool , and I really feel no thirst , it is not well to amuse oneself with supernatural things . '' He spent the noon with his old acquaintance the water-carrier , and towards evening proceeded in the direction of Babylon . He searched long before he found the spot described by Lockman . The sun had already sunk and cast his rays on some stones overgrown with ivy , when Ali perceived an entrance , and fancied he saw Lockman . As he went towards him , Lockman said : `` Have you come at last ?