noon
Come . '' He took the lead , and Bart followed at his heels . But they were not to confront Wat Snell at the door of the recitation room , as Merriwell hoped , for they were not long in learning that the fellow had lately obtained a pass and left the grounds . According to Snell , his uncle was to pass through Fardale village on the noon train , and Wat 's presence was desired at the station . Of course both Frank and Bart immediately decided that this excuse had been used to enable him to reach the village and deliver the stolen ring to the man in black . For all of their desire to pursue Snell hotly , they were unable to leave without permission , and so valuable time was lost . At length , however , they were on the highway , running side by side toward the village .