about noon
He was turning to leave the bank when he met Deacon Mason just entering . `` Ah , Deacon , '' said he , `` have you come to draw some money ? I think I have just taken all the bank bills they have on hand . '' `` I hope not , '' said the Deacon , `` I kinder promised some one that I 'd be on hand about noon to-day with five hundred dollars that he wants to use on a business matter this afternoon . '' Quincy took the Deacon by the arm and pulled him one side , out of hearing of any other person in the room . `` Say , Deacon Mason , I am going to ask you a question , which , of course , you can answer or not , as you see fit ; but if this business matter turns out to be what I think it is , I may be able to save you considerable trouble . '' `` I do n't think you would ask me any question that I ought not to answer , '' replied the Deacon , glancing up at Quincy with a sly look in his eye and a slight smile on his face .