The noon sun
Familiar when he saw Mount Vernon on its imposing bluff ; unfamiliar because no domes or obelisks were to be seen ; no airfield , and no Pentagon . But the sweet green land itself was there , holding out its welcoming and individual scent of fields and rich American soil . However , the Georgetown Ned Cilley and Amos remembered , the little town from which they had all sailed in secrecy and haste so many months before , was there awaiting them . The noon sun was bright over the few slate roofs and red brick chimneys , and Chris felt a choke of happiness binding his throat like a scarf too tightly drawn , and a constriction at his heart as if it were too firmly held in a welcoming hand . An excited happiness shook him as the _ Mirabelle _ was eased to the wharfside , and at last , after dangers and adventures beyond his imagining , Chris not only knew that he was home again , but saw a familiar black-dressed figure and a plump woman in a monstrous hat , waiting for him to disembark . What a day that was ! The greetings and handshakings ; the enveloping hug for Chris and Amos from Becky Boozer , her eyes filled with happy tears and her bonnet trembling with agitation .