midday
There is another way , if -- '' `` Do n't want it ! Mornin ' . '' He dropped his head suddenly forward , and limped away in the sunlight . Breakfast , usually a movable feast at La Mision Perdida , had been prolonged until past midday ; the last of the dance guests had flown , and the home party -- with the exception of Captain Carroll , who had returned to duty at his distant post -- were dispersing ; some as riding cavalcades to neighboring points of interest ; some to visit certain notable mansions which the wealth of a rapid civilization had erected in that fertile valley . One of these in particular , the work of a breathless millionaire , was famous for the spontaneity of its growth and the reckless extravagance of its appointments . `` If you go to Aladdin 's Palace , '' said Maruja , from the top step of the south porch , to a wagonette of guests , `` after you 've seen the stables with mahogany fittings for one hundred horses , ask Aladdin to show you the enchanted chamber , inlaid with California woods and paved with gold quartz . '' `` We would have a better chance if the Princess of China would only go with us , '' pleaded Garnier , gallantly .