noon
Even if I were ready to risk my own life on such a mad enterprise , I would not ask others to do the same . '' Crossing the stream , they made their way down through the forest . It was toilsome work , as they often had to clear a way with axes through the undergrowth and tangle of creepers . But at noon they reached level ground . The heat was now intense , even under the trees , and the air close and oppressive . On the way down Harry shot a wild turkey . When they halted , this was cut up and broiled over a fire , and after it had been eaten all lay down and slept for two or three hours .