noon
I would not give it to you at another time , but you need it now . '' Eagerly it was seized , eagerly drained , and then , after he had swallowed a long draught of the water , O'Grady slowly rose to his feet , looking , with eyes rapidly softening and losing their wild glare , upon the young officer who stood before him . Once or twice he passed his hands across his forehead , as though to sweep away the cobwebs that pressed upon his brain , but for a moment he did not essay a word . Little by little the color crept back to his cheek ; and , noting this , Mr. Billings smiled very quietly , and said , `` Now , O'Grady , lie down ; you will be able to sleep now until the men come in at noon ; then you shall have another drink , and you 'll be able to eat what I send you . If you can not sleep , call the sergeant of the guard ; or if you want anything , I 'll come to you . '' Then , with tears starting to his eyes , the soldier found words : `` I thank the lieutenant . If I live a thousand years , sir , this will never be forgotten , -- never , sir !