noon
I 'll send you word to the inn after each visit , or , if you wish , you may come to me evenings , and I 'll tell you all about her . Shall I see you to-night , and shall I carry any message ? '' `` Tell her I will remain till she is better , and -- and then I -- I will -- that will be all for the present . '' * * * * * Billy Little was for going home at noon , but Dic begged him to remain . The day was very long for Dic , notwithstanding Billy 's companionship , and twice during the afternoon he induced his friend to exhibit the Brummel coat at the street-crossing a short distance south of the house wherein the girl of girls lay ill and grieving . After much persuasion , Billy consented to accompany Dic on his visit that evening to Miss Tousy . The Schwitzer coat was carefully brushed , the pale face was closely shaved and delicately powdered , and the few remaining hairs were made to do the duty of many in covering Billy 's blushing baldness .