noon
`` I have no affinity to a single consort , much less to duplicates and triplicates of the class ! I shall certainly essay a flight from their abodes before I mingle in so violent a conjunction . '' `` There is reason in your words ; but why not attempt the race you speak of now ? '' The naturalist looked fearfully around , as if he had an inclination to make an instant exhibition of his desperate intention ; but the dusky figures , who were riding on every side of him , seemed suddenly tripled in number , and the darkness , that was already thickening on the prairie , appeared in his eyes to possess the glare of high noon . `` It would be premature , and reason forbids it , '' he answered . `` Leave me , venerable venator , to the council of my own thoughts , and when my plans are properly classed , I will advise you of my resolutions . '' `` Resolutions ! ''