noon
enquired Mr. Vermont . `` Do let me help ; I love shopping ! '' But this neither of the ladies would allow ; and with a parting shot on the subject of Adrien 's whereabouts , Vermont took his leave . His next move was to Waterloo Station , where he took a train to Hampton ; and a little after noon , Jasper Vermont was strolling along the side of the river , smoking his cigar . Very amiable he looked , and exceedingly interested in the boats , and therefore it was not surprising that the man who let them out on hire readily answered his questions as to the best season of the year , the approximate number of customers , etc. , all leading up to the main question , had a boat with a lady and gentleman gone out that day ? `` No , '' the man said . `` Curiously enough , sir , no boat has gone out to-day with a lady and a gentleman in it , like what you describe . ''