noon
The neatness with which the escape was executed points to the disquieting conclusion that they did not want for assistance . '' `` I 'll ask you to excuse me , '' said Sam , rising abruptly and leaving the room . A sick terror possessed his heart ; visions of the dock and the felon 's cell followed him as he picked up his hat and crept into the street . Outside , the morning was serene , with the promise of a broiling noon ; but as far as Sam was concerned , Egyptian darkness would have been better . He shivered : at the corner of the street he met the local policeman and winced . But far , far worse was it with Mr. Moggridge , to whose lodgings his steps were bending . The Poet , as Sam entered , was seated as nearly as possible on the small of his back before the breakfast table .