noon
By-and-by he scratched his head . Now it is unaccountable , but certain heads often yield an idea in return for that . Joseph 's did , and his countenance brightened . Three days after this Ina was surprised by a note from the burgomaster , saying that he and certain of the town council would have the honor of calling on her at noon . What might this mean ? She sent to ask for Mr. Ashmead ; he was not to be found ; he had hidden himself too carefully . The deputation came and thanked her for her munificent act of charity .