noon
He thought of the fine large bill of goods , engaged for himself and partners to take to the `` See Saw '' claim . It made him smile . But he would not rescind the order -- for a while . His partners , with his worldly goods , the Chinese cook and all the household , save Cayuse , would doubtless arrive by noon . He and they had to eat ; they had to live . Also they had to mine , for they knew nothing else by way of occupation . They must somehow get hold of some sort of claim , and go on with their round of hopes and toil .