noon
It was also more than likely , he was sure , the Dyaks would either cut through the strands to weaken it , near the top , or displace the rocks he had heaped upon its end . Reflecting that to pull it down while one of their craft was cruising about the headland might convince them he had fallen in the sea , he laid his platform out on the ledge for the purpose before the terrace had been deserted . But the boat was not to be seen . At noon the sun beat down on the rocks about the cave with a hot , intolerable glare . Grenville was weary , as well as thirsty once more , and faint from lack of food . He dared not abandon the cavern now , however , since any moment might find the Dyaks slipping to the open niche to complete the deed they had vainly attempted before . Never had the long , sultry hours of afternoon dragged by more tediously .