noon
It seemed difficult to account for this supply of fresh water in so unpromising a spot , and so near the sea-shore . I was at first inclined to think it nothing more than a reservoir of standing water , left by the last rains , which had filled not only the pit , but also the surrounding basin . The former being deep and narrow , evaporation would be very gradual , which might , I supposed , account for the small quantity still remaining . `` That can hardly be , '' said Arthur , when I suggested this explanation , `` the spot is wholly unsheltered from the sun , except at noon , by this screen of palm-leaves , and if the entire hollow were filled with water this morning , there would not be a drop of moisture left in three days , unless the supply were renewed . Besides , the water is too fresh and sweet to have stood since the last rains . '' `` I should judge , '' said Morton , `` that this spot is but little above the level of the lagoon , and if the bottom of the well here , is below that level at ebb tide , this supply of fresh water can be easily accounted for . '' `` The rise and fall of the tide here , does not seem to be more than eighteen inches , or two feet , '' said Max , `` and as to the depth of the pit or well , as you call it , you ought to be able to speak with confidence , having so recently been to the bottom of it . ''