noon
The number of men who had arrived was much smaller than had been anticipated , owing to the fact that the simultaneous invasion , at so many points , had the effect of retaining the peasants of the various localities for the defence of their own homes . Leigh learned that a mounted messenger had been despatched , shortly before he brought the prisoner down , to beg Monsieur d'Elbee to bring the force he commanded , at Chollet , with all speed to aid in the defence of Chemille ; for if that town fell , he would be exposed to the attack of the united forces of Generals Berruyer and Leigonyer . `` Now , gentlemen , I think we had better get a few hours ' sleep , '' Cathelineau said . `` They will not be here very early , probably not until noon ; for they may wait for a time before starting , in hopes of being joined either by Leigonyer or one of the other columns , and it is not likely that any news of the sharp reverse that Leigonyer has met with has reached them . '' It was now two o'clock in the morning , and Leigh slept heavily , till roused at eight . `` You should have called me before , Andre , '' he said reproachfully , when he learnt how late it was . `` I thought it was better that you should have a good sleep , captain .