noon
It was the world -- his world -- against him , he knew . What -- what must be the result ? Half an hour later Jim rode into Barnriff . It was getting on toward noon , and most of the villagers were busy at their various occupations . As he rode on to the market-place he glanced quickly about him , and , all unconsciously , there was defiance and resentment in his dark eyes ; the look of a man prepared for the accusations which he knew were awaiting him . But this attitude was quite wasted , for there were few people about , and those few were either too far off , or too busy to note his coming , or appreciate his feelings , as expressed in his dark eyes . It is strange how instinct will so often take the lead in moments critical in the lives of human beings .