noon
The local public men , the correspondents , and all on the little train were silent , staring out of the windows , apparently engrossed in the scenery , which was now becoming grand and beautiful . Ridge rose above ridge , and afar the peaks , clad in eternal snow , looked down like heaven 's silent sentinels . Mr. Heathcote was very courteous to Mrs. Grayson , but at first he scarcely noticed Sylvia , although a little later he expressed admiration for her beauty , not doubting , however , that he would find her the possessor of an uncultivated mind . Towards the noon hour a tragic discovery was made . After the candidate 's last speech in the evening the train would leave immediately for Utah , and all continuing on the way must sleep aboard . Room had been found in some manner for Mr. Heathcote , but every other berth , upper and lower , had been assigned long ago , and there was nothing left for his man . But Mr. Heathcote , resolved not to be trampled upon , went in a state of high indignation to the conductor .