noon
He would apply to Rowland Slocum . Long ago , when Richard was an urchin making pot-hooks in the lane , the man used occasionally to pat him on the head and give him pennies . This was not a foundation on which to rear a very lofty castle ; but this was all he had . It was noon when Richard approached the marble yard , and the men were pouring out into the street through the wide gate in the rough deal fence which inclosed the works , -- heavy , brawny men , covered with fine white dust , who shouldered each other like cattle , and took the sidewalk to themselves . Richard stepped aside to let them pass , eying them curiously as possible comrades . Suddenly a slim dark fellow , who had retained his paper cap and leather apron , halted and thrust forth a horny hand . The others went on .