midday
Deep shadows from the overhanging foliage screened them from the now scorching sunlight . After a lunch on dried beef and biscuit , the mate suggested a siesta for an hour or two until it should be cool enough to proceed . Ralph volunteered to keep watch , though there did not seem to be much necessity for vigilance . The whole vast forest and all life within its folds appeared to be steeped in tropical midday repose . `` Well , '' said the mate , as he and Ben bestowed themselves in the bottom of the boat on some blankets , `` if you get too sleepy call Ben . We 'll have to cover our heads on account of these wretched gnats and mosquitos . '' While the two slumbered , Ralph amused himself at first by examining the mechanism of his Winchester .