noon
But her next reflection made her frown a little . '' -- Partly that , I guess , '' she thought , `` and partly to see Burdon , as usual . '' A knock on the door interrupted her , and Joe entered , bearing two cards . `` These gentlemen have been waiting since noon , '' he announced , `` but they said they did n't mind waiting when I told them who was with you . '' The cards bore the name of a firm of public accountants . `` Oh , yes , '' said Mary . `` Show them in , please , Joe .