noon
`` Walter 's there all right , '' he called to his companions , `` I saw his signal . '' The morning wore slowly away without a sign of their enemies . `` What have you figured out is the reason they ai n't troubling us , Charley ? '' the captain called when the noon hour was at last reached . `` I have been studying over it for a long time , sir , '' the lad answered , `` and have come to the conclusion that they have decided to postpone finishing us up until they have disposed of the Indians . I guess they are afraid that the noise of firearms would put the Seminoles on their guard if they happen to be within hearing . Anyway , I guess , we can spare Chris long enough to get us a lunch . ''