noon
The cat had already killed one bullock and injured another . They knew that the beast would not return for some hours , having gorged itself upon the kid . But it was well to be prepared . Toward noon the other treasure seekers drew up within a quarter of a mile behind the village . The men-folk thought it advisable to reconnoiter before entering the village . One never could tell . Winnie declared her intention of snoozing while they waited , and curled up in her rugs .