noon
`` If Barber was t ' find out , '' he answered , `` and so much as laid a little finger on that suit , he 'd have t ' settle matters with _ me _ . Come ! '' Like one in an enchanted dream , Johnnie followed on in his stiff , new shoes . It was noon , and as they emerged from the dark hallway which led into the main street to the north , the sidewalks were aswarm . Indeed , the doorstep which gave from the hall to the pave was itself planted thick with citizens of assorted sizes . To get out , One-Eye lifted his spurred boots high over the heads of two small people . But Johnnie , doffing the scout hat with practiced art , '' ` Scuse me , please , '' he begged , in perfect imitation of Mr. Perkins ; and in very awe fully six of the seated , having given a backward glance , and spied that uniform , rose precipitately to let him by .