noon
Ranch work was much too slow for them , and as a consequence it was impossible for us to secure any help that was worth having . What made it all the more provoking was that we had that year an extra-fine stand of grass -- the weather , too , was magnificent -- yet , unless we could get help , it was hardly likely that we could take full advantage of our splendid hay-crop . Nevertheless , as what could not be cured must be endured , my father and I tackled the job ourselves , working early and late , and we were making very good progress , all things considered , when we had the misfortune to break a small casting in our mowing-machine ; a mishap which would probably entail a delay of several days until we could get the piece replaced . It was just before noon that this happened , and we had brought the machine up to the wagon-shed and had put up the horses , when , on stepping out of the stable , we were accosted by a tall , black haired , blue eyed young fellow of about my own age , who asked if he could get a job with us . `` Yes , you can , '' replied my father , promptly ; and then , remembering the accident to the machine , he added , `` at least , you can as soon as I get this casting replaced , '' holding out the broken piece as he spoke . `` May I look at it ? '' asked the young fellow ; and taking it in his hand he went on : `` I see you have a blacksmith-shop over there ; I think I can duplicate this for you if you 'll let me try : I was a blacksmith 's apprentice only a month ago . ''