noon
she queried . `` I am so sorry I did not hear . I am afraid I am both deaf and dumb to-day . But we simply must get to our mountain by noon . Driving a car over these mountain roads is n't the easiest task in the world . '' Barbara laughed back over her shoulder at the occupants of the end seat in the car . `` Miss Sallie Stuart , '' she said in solemn tones , `` please , let our chauffeur alone !