two hours after noon
Intent on the rising haze and their own terrors , they forgot all else . Vigilance and caution were thrown to the winds . The stillness of the valley , its isolation , the distant woods that encircled us and hung quivering in the heated air , all added to the panic . Despite all my efforts and threats , the men gradually left their posts , and getting together in little parties at the gate , worked themselves up to such a pitch of dread that by two hours after noon they were fit for any folly ; and at the mere cry of ` plague ! ' would have rushed to their horses and ridden in every direction . It was plain that I could depend for useful service on myself and three others only -- of whom , to his credit be it said , Simon Fleix was one . Seeing this , I was immensely relieved when I presently heard that Fresnoy was again seeking to speak with me .