noon
At the expiration of an hour , just as Cummings was thinking it time to call Jake , he arose and peered cautiously out through the opening . `` Why did you get up so soon ? '' Cummings asked . `` You need rest , and there is nothing to prevent your sleeping until noon if you feel so disposed . '' `` There is much work to be done , '' he replied gravely . `` When the sun rises I must examine the trail to make sure it is not too plain . '' `` It will be another hour before daylight . ''