noon
This mode of interrogation , so closely followed up to every particular , yet apparently with such indifference , together with the stranger 's treacherous look and several minor things all bearing a suspicious cast , more than half convinced Algernon that the other was a spy , and that some foul play was assuredly meditated ; though what , and to whom , or for what purpose , he was at a loss to determine . From the particulars of the coming wedding , the stranger , after a little , adroitly turned the conversation upon the wound of Reynolds ; asked a number of questions , and appeared deeply interested in the whole narration concerning it -- the attack upon him by the Indians and his providential escape through the assistance of Boone -- all of which was detailed by Isaac in his own peculiar way . From this case in particular , the conversation gradually changed to other cases that had happened in the vicinity ; and also to the state of the country , with regard to what it had been and now was -- its settlements -- its increase of inhabitants -- the many Indian invasions and massacres that had occurred within the last five years on the borders -- and the present supposed population of the frontiers . `` As to myself , '' said Younker , in reply to some observation of the stranger , `` as to myself and family , we 've been extremely fortunate in ` scaping the red foe -- though I 've bin daily fearful that when I went away to my work in the morning , I 'd may be come back agin at noon or night and find my women folks gone , or murdered , and my cot in ashes ; but , thank the Lord ! I 've been so far spared sech a heart rending sight . '' `` And had you no personal fears ? '' asked the stranger .