Noon
Having fortified himself by spreading out his case before the Lord in prayer , and strengthened himself physically by eating and drinking a small portion of his now nearly exhausted provisions , he once more examined every place through which it might be possible for him to make his escape , but in vain . Last of all he looked up the chimney , but felt that he could not attempt to make his way out in that direction . He must just wait then ; and he turned to some of those promises in the Psalms which are specially encouraging to those who wait , and a strange , unearthly peace stole into his heart . Noon had passed , but not a sound broke the stillness except the drip , drip from the roof , for a thaw had set in . Three o'clock came . What was that sound ? Was the end nearer than he expected ?