noon
One must be sent to the height beyond , to keep a watch for the _ Pioneer _ . `` If the vessel is sighted send a runner to the shore , and try to get into communication with it , so they may know where we are . `` As soon as Tarra returns , send him forward to us without delay . He should be back before noon to-day . '' John was thus precise to deliver the instructions , because he did not know what their reception was likely to be at the village . As stated , his prime object was to prevent the sacrifice of captives , if such there should be , or to put off the rites which he knew would take place that day and the next . They marched down the hill , taking all precautions on the way , but they met no opposition .