noon
I had intended dealing with this man myself , but it now occurred to me that his schooling would serve to rouse Hartog from his apathy . `` If you must know , then , '' I answered , `` it is Hoft Hugens to whom the men look as leader . '' The next minute Hartog was striding through the town , a native club in his hand , which he had taken from the Queen 's house . Although past noon , there were none to be seen outside the huts . All were asleep after their mid-day meal , upon which they had gorged themselves to repletion . At the sight of this defiance of discipline a deep flush overspread Hartog 's face , as though he felt shame for having allowed his authority to pass from him . Then he began to beat with his club upon the doors of the houses until the men came out , some in sleepy remonstrance , and others with curses in their mouths at having been disturbed from their siesta .