midday
Ned surmised that they had no love of military service . The way was not easy for one on foot . Clouds of dust arose , and stung nose and throat . The sharp lava or basalt cut through the soles of shoes , and at midday the sun 's rays burned fiercely . Weakened already by the hardships of his flight Ned was barely able to keep up . Once when he staggered a horseman prodded him with the butt of his lance . Ned was not revengeful , but he noted the man 's face .