noon
That he has not done so is evidence conclusive and convincing to us all that something untoward has happened to him , for which we shall hold the entire population of your city , individually and collectively , responsible . `` Now , '' he continued , turning and addressing his companions on the deck , `` that is speaking plainly enough for even a Spaniard to understand , is n't it ? But since Captain Marshall 's safety and well-being must be our first consideration , I think we ought not to make our conditions so hard as to be impossible of fulfilment ; I therefore propose that we allow them a little more time in which to find him , before we proceed to extremities . Let us make it clear to them that he must be found and delivered up to us , safe and sound , within a certain time , say noon to-day ; and that failure to comply with this demand will be followed by the bombardment and sack of the town . What say you , gentles ? '' `` Agreed ! '' came the answer , as with one voice , from all present .