noon
In truth , I had already seen so much of his eccentricities , that I was hoping our acquaintance would cease in Barnstable . But it now became apparent that he regarded himself not only a necessary item in my welfare , but as being most essential to the achievement of my designs . So , charging me to think no more of Bessie , whom he hinted was as coy a little witch as ever waited on the table of a country tavern , and ready at all times to make love with every dashing young fellow who chanced that way , he took his departure , promising to call at noon on the next day . Having passed the night in refreshing sleep , I was up with the sun on the following morning , and before noon had received the calls of several distinguished citizens , two or three of whom requested that I `` remain over , '' and deliver an address on the state of the nation . Offering my inability as an apology for not complying with their request , I was surprised that so obscure a person should receive such homage . The mystery , however , was very soon explained . The major , adopting the method in fashion with some of our modern politicians , had been actively noising it about , that no greater politician than myself ever lived ; and that , being on my way to Washington in search of a foreign mission , I had generously invited him to accompany me .