noon
replied the latter , in a low , emphatic tone , and with a look of peculiar significance -- `` temporize till -- '' `` Till we can help ourselves , '' said Patterson , taking up the sentence where the other left it , or rather finishing in words what had been expressed by looks . `` That 's just my notion , '' remarked Stearns . `` Let them see and be assured that we are for peace , and want nothing but what is right ; all of which may be said truly . And in this manner , if the thing is well managed , their suspicions can be allayed , and we can get possession of the Court House as soon as our friends get on , which will be by to-morrow noon -- will it not Patterson ? '' `` Yes , unless this cussed flood has carried away all the roads , as well as bridges , '' gruffly replied the sheriff . `` Yes , and if these mobbing knaves can be kept quiet then , we shall be in a situation to ask no favors . '' `` And grant none , '' said Sabin , with cool bitterness .