noon
`` We did n't expect ye ; but ye 're welcome just the same . '' Ratty 's hand was on Molly 's bridle-rein . Frances knew that she was a prisoner . The party of visitors to the Edwards ranch tired of jack-shooting and jack-running before noon . José Reposa had cached a huge hamper of lunch which the Bar-T cook had put up , and he softly suggested to Mrs. Edwards that the company be called together and luncheon made ready , with hot coffee for all . `` But where 's Pratt ? '' cried somebody .