noon
To this Martie had nothing to say . She left messages of love for Len and for her father . Her mother and sister came with her for good-byes to the old porch with its peeling dark paint and woody rose-vines . `` Pa said at noon that you had ` phoned you wanted to come say good-bye , '' said her mother mildly . `` I hope you 'll always be happy , Martie , and remember that we did our best for you . If you 're a good girl , and write some day and ask Pa 's forgiveness , I think he may come ` round , because he was always a most affectionate father to his children . '' The toneless , lifeless voice ceased .