noon
But , if you like , you can come again and see him . '' `` I would like it much ; when might I come ? '' `` Well , he might be back any minute . Still , it 's uncertain , and you 'd better make it to-morrow morning ; you 'll be sure to find him on board up till noon , anyhow . '' Though country born and bred , Henry Chester was too well-mannered to prolong the interview , especially after receiving such courteous treatment , the first shown him that day . So , bowing thanks as well as speaking them , he returns to the wharf . But , still under the influence of gratitude , he glances back over the barque 's counter , to see on her quarter-deck what intensifies his desire to become one of her crew .