noon
`` The runners were sent out by De Courcelles and Tandakora to rally more strength for our siege . They 've returned with the news that fresh forces are coming , as the exultant shout from the warriors proves . '' The young Philadelphian 's heart sank . He knew that it was only a half hour until noon , and noon was the appointed time . Nor did the heavens give any favoring sign . The whole mighty vault was a blaze of gold and blue . Nothing could stir in such a light and remain hidden from the warriors .