noon
Frank emphasized the last word by punching Roderick in the ribs with his thumb -- an action which caused the animal to lay back his ears , and kick viciously , with both feet , at some imaginary object behind him . When our hero returned to the place where he had left Archie and Johnny , he saw them lying on their beds securely bound . Pierre stood close by , with a lasso in his hand , and , when Frank came up , he greeted him with a fierce scowl , and , in a savage tone of voice , commanded him to cross his arms behind his back . Frank obeyed , and the Ranchero , while he was busy confining him , inquired : `` Do you remember what I said to you at noon ? '' `` About what ? '' asked Frank . `` About making scare-crows of you and your friends , if my messenger does not return at daylight . ''