noon
Immediately after the ceremony he picked up his two bundles and turned to all of our assembled friends . `` We 'll be back in a few weeks , and then I 'll show you what I learned in Argentina . We have to hurry now to get across the valley . Some of the fine sheep over at Plunkett 's are down with foot rash , and I want to be there by noon . Luck to you all . '' With these words Pan led me around the corner of the house , through the old garden , and out into the woods , Mr. G. Bird still following at the smock-pocket . `` We 'll have to go back and lock him up ; he 'll follow me , '' I said , as I paused and took the Golden Bird 's proud head in my hand and let him peck at a dull gold circle on my third finger , which , I am sure , Pan himself had hammered out of a nugget for me .