noon
`` Then we 'll go ahead . As soon as you feel played out , do n't hesitate to say so . '' Captain Moore carried the rifle , hunting-knife , and what was left of the meat , and also insisted upon having the private lean on his arm . In this fashion two miles were covered by noon , when they came to a rest under the shade of a big tree . Peck was pale , and showed plainly that the exertion had done him no good . `` Hardest walking I ever did , '' he admitted , as he stretched himself at full length . It was his will-power alone that had kept him up .