midday
Fortunately it had chosen for its resting-place a spot where the banian-tree afforded some shelter from the rain , and from the sun when the rain ceased . Swampy paddy fields lay on both sides of the road , and muggy steam rose from the ground under the sun 's heat , making Ahmed feel very uncomfortable . He tramped up and down for a time , hoping that the camel would rise ; but as there was no sign of any change of mood in it , he by and by spread a mat by the animal 's side , and squatted on it , leaning against the camel , prepared to make the best of the situation . He ate some of the food he had brought with him , and then , it being midday and hot , he fell asleep . A Pathan sleeps like a rabbit , with only one eye shut , and Ahmed would wake at the slightest sound . If a band of mutineers should come upon him he knew that there was no escape for him , so that whether awake or asleep he would be in the same predicament . It was late in the afternoon when he awoke .