noon
At length the camp sites gave proof of having been so recently occupied , that it seemed as though they might sight Cuyler 's boats at any time , and Paymaster Bullen , in anticipation of a speedy meeting with the ladies , devoted so much attention to his personal appearance that never had such a dandy as he been seen in the wilderness . As the paymaster 's efforts to enhance his personal attractions increased , Donald 's ever-growing anxiety led him to become more than ever impatient of such things and eager to hasten forward . He became provoked at his companion 's frivolity , and regretted ever having consented to travel with him . When he finally discovered the prints of Indian moccasins about one of Cuyler 's fires , the ashes of which were still hot , he grew so apprehensive of evil , and so impatient to get on , that he refused to allow his crew even the scanty half-hour of rest at noon to which they were accustomed . He so urged their labors of this day , by alternate threats and promises , that the canoe reached the eastern side of Point au Pelee at the very time of Cuyler 's landing on its western shore . Here Donald informed his men that they might cook their evening meal , and rest for two hours , at the end of which time they must be prepared to push on , as he was determined to overtake the other party before they broke camp on the morrow . During the preparation of supper , the young man paced restlessly up and down the beach , casting occasional scornful glances at the dapper little paymaster , who , with the assistance of the faithful `` Tummas , '' was taking his regular evening bath , in his beloved tub .