noon
When he finished , his hostess rose and Carroll stood up , but Nairn motioned to him to resume his place . `` I 'm thinking ye had better sit still a while and smoke , '' he said . Carroll was glad to do so , and they conferred together until Nairn was called to the telephone . `` Ye can have the Brodick boat at noon to-morrow , '' he reported on his return . `` That wo n't do , '' Carroll objected heavily . `` Send Whitney round again ; I must sail to-night . '' He had some difficulty in getting out the words , and when he rose his eyes were half closed .