noon
It was long before Alton awakened , and then it became evident that he was not wholly sensible . Loss of blood , over-fatigue , exposure and hunger had left their mark on him , and while he rambled disjointedly a bitter wind sprang up . It raged down the valley , bringing with it the cold of the Pole , and while the pines raised their wild voices , the water congealed in the kettle , and in spite of the great fire built outside it the tent grew icy . At noon Tom of Okanagan glanced at his patient and shook his head , while Seaforth felt his misgivings confirmed as he saw his face . `` I guess we 've got to wait for to-morrow . There 'll be snow to-night , '' he said . It was a long day to Seaforth .