noon
`` I came from the North for this purpose , but I meant to go on to Savannah . '' `` Yes , I know . This is better ; they need _ everything _ in this place . '' She looked toward the gasping little town through the relentless noon . Her merciful blue eyes filled , but the man 's look followed with a dry , exultant light . `` There is no porter , '' he said , abruptly , glancing at her heavy bag and shawl-strap . `` Would you permit me to help you ? ''