noon
`` I think I 'll be able to walk on the foot in a day or two , '' answered Lester Lawrence . `` You see I can already hobble around . But that sprain was a pretty bad one , I can assure you ! '' After this the situation was discussed for some time -- in fact , until well after the noon hour . Then one of the boys suggested that they have dinner , and while Phil and his uncle continued to talk over their personal affairs , Dave and his chums set about getting ready the meal . While all in the cabin partook of the midday meal , the boys told the hermit about their life in camp , and also of their adventures at Oak Hall and in other places . Lester Lawrence listened interestedly to the recital , and asked innumerable questions concerning their doings , and also questioned Phil regarding conditions at home .