noon
`` I will see the guns before I say anything more about the matter . When can you fill our water-tanks and coal-bunkers ? '' inquired the commander . `` We are very busy to-day , for we have several steamers to supply ; but it shall be done before to-morrow noon . '' `` Now I will introduce you to our chief steward . '' Mr. Sage insisted upon seeing his supplies before he named the quantity needed , and made an appointment on shore . Captain Ringgold knew something about Aden before he decided to make a stopping-place of it , and it was certainly a more agreeable location than Perim .