noon
`` But you had better not start in until you hear from your mother , '' said the insurance agent . `` She may wish you to pay a visit home before you settle down here . '' Ralph thought this good advice , and he resolved to act upon it . `` I ought to get a letter by to-morrow noon or night , '' he said . `` And I will wait that long . If I do n't get word , I 'll take the trip home anyway , seeing as you say you will be kind enough to wait for me . '' Kelsey then asked him what he intended to do while waiting , and learning Ralph had nothing in particular in view , he advised the boy to get a guide-book of the city and walk about , so that he might become familiar with the streets .