midday
`` No , they are not Indians -- they are white men , '' quickly added Elwood . A careful scrutiny by all ended in a confirmation of Elwood 's suspicion . `` That is good , '' said Howard , with a pleased expression , `` it shows that we are getting beyond the wild country into a neighborhood where white men abound , and where we can feel some degree of safety . '' `` I suppose they are miners or hunters who are taking their midday meal in the open air , '' added Elwood , who was still gazing at them . `` Shall we heave too , pitch over the anchor , and s ` lute them ? '' asked Tim . `` No ; go ahead , we have no time to spare . ''