noon
These , as may be imagined , were not of the most pleasant kind . Hour after hour passed . The brigands were some sleeping , some playing cards , and all enjoying themselves in some way , but no one took any notice of the prisoner . The sun rode high in the heavens , and it was evidently approaching noon , when the messenger returned from the town with a letter . It was addressed to Pike , but Toro opened it . It was not from Harkaway , but from the chief of the police , informing the unfortunate detective that the Greek government declined to make any terms or drive any bargain with brigands , but that any ill usage Mr. Pike might suffer would be most effectually avenged . `` You hear this ? ''