noon
They were always busy or sleeping -- any place but where they should be at breakfast time . `` Now , I must see Dorothy before school , '' said Tavia , leaving the table . `` Johnnie , just eat all your toast while I clear up . Then you can bring in fresh water , and some wood to have ready for noon , in case mother should not get home in time to do everything . '' Mr. Travers was also in a hurry to get down to the Green , he had made an appointment to talk with Major Dale and he did not delay after breakfast . A new world had been discovered by him -- the land of prosperity ; ambition for his children , and perhaps even contentment for the incompetent little woman who had suffered too , and who now might find a way and heart to do what seemed not worth while before . But Dorothy had `` anticipated '' Tavia 's visit and was at the door before the latter had entirely cleared away the table .