noon
Farron and Wells and the men might be able to hold out a few hours at the ranch up the valley , and keep the Indians far enough away to prevent their burning them out . Of course the ranch could not stand a long siege against Indian ingenuity , but six hours , or eight at the utmost , would be sufficient time in which to bring rescue to the inmates . By that time he could have an overwhelming force of cavalry in the valley , and all would be safe . If word were not sent to them it would be noon to-morrow before the advance of the Fifth would reach the Chug . By that time all would be over with Farron . Ralph 's brave young heart almost stopped beating as he thought of the hideous fate that awaited the occupants of the ranch unless help came to them . He felt that nothing but a light rider and a fast horse could carry the news in time .