twelve o'clock
That was the method we ultimately pursued and it worked most satisfactorily . Hutchins baked hot biscuits ; and , by putting a cover over the pan , we were enabled to get them to him before they cooled . We prepared a really appetizing luncheon of hot biscuits , broiled ham , marmalade , and tea , adding , at Aggie 's instructions , a jar of preserved peaches , which she herself had put up . Tish made the raft while we prepared the food , and at exactly half-past twelve o'clock we left the house . Mr. McDonald saw us coming and was waiting smilingly at the upper end of the island . `` Great Scott ! '' he said .