noon
`` Darrell , see that they have refreshment at once , because we move in an hour . '' Darrell , a young aide procured them food and horses . Soon the whole detachment was marching toward the main force , and the three true to the promise of their Cockney friends saw London ` buses , still covered with their hideous signs lumbering along as transports . At noon they joined the chief British army , and the next day they were in touch with the French . The preceding night the three received places in wagons and slept heavily . By morning their strength was fully restored and pending the arrival of the Strangers , with whom they intended to remain they served as aides . Several days passed , but not in idleness .