noon
And besides , '' he added , smiling , `` you are poor indeed at thanking , Mr. Ritchie . You could never do it gracefully . But if ever I were in trouble , I believe that I might safely call on you . '' The next day was a rare one , for a wind from somewhere had blown the moisture away a little , the shadows were clearer cut , and by noon Monsieur de St. Gré and I were walking our horses in the shady road behind the levee . We were followed at a respectful distance by André , Monsieur 's mulatto body-servant , and as we rode my companion gave me stories of the owners of the different plantations we passed , and spoke of many events of interest in the history of the colony . Presently he ceased to talk , and rode in silence for many minutes . And then he turned upon me suddenly .