about noon
Had we felt sure that we would be attacked , we should have been wise to have destroyed many of these out-buildings , as they were calculated to protect the enemy . But to the last Uncle Jeff was not fully persuaded that the Indians would venture to approach the place , as they must have known that we were prepared for their reception . The day drew on , but still Bartle did not return ; and we began to hope that after all no enemy would appear . But about noon , and just as we were making ready to sit down to dinner , he was seen approaching the house with rapid strides . `` There is no doubt about what these varmints intend ! '' he exclaimed as he rushed into the house . `` They are coming on as fast as their legs can carry them , and will be here before the day is much older .