midday
How much happiness do they not bring into a home when laden with words of tenderness and affection ! Home ! ah , he is indeed no vagabond who has a home , however modest , and dear ones awaiting to welcome him when he returns , tired and weary with his struggle in the race for advancement . Before midday the occupation of the morning was completed , and after a hearty meal the company gathered aft to pass away the time and talk over the past as well as to ventilate the prospects for the future . They were enjoying one day 's rest , at least . Seated in the companionway was Handy , the high priest of the little organization . `` Do you think , gentlemen , on mature reconsideration , '' began Handy , `` we might take another shy at ` Uncle Tom , ' and do business ? ''