noon
He noticed me no more than a stone , but when the fire was restack 'd , drew up his chair to the warmth , and breakfasted on oat cake and a liberal deal of liquor . Observing him , the black cat uncoil 'd , stretch 'd himself , and climbing to his master 's knee , sat there purring , and the best of friends . I also judged it time to breakfast : found my store : took a bite or two , and a pull at the keg , and lay back -- this time to sleep . When I woke , 't was high noon . The door stood open , and outside on the wall the winter sunshine was lying , very bright and clear . Indoors , the old savage had been drinking steadily ; and still sat before the fire , with the cat on one knee , and his keg on the other . I sat up and strain 'd my ears .