noon
The lady , herself , had gone out , but had left it with her maid . And I have not the least doubt of its genuineness . '' `` Then , we are up to Alderman Patrick McGuire , '' I said . `` I cabled at noon to Washington asking the Department to obtain , immediately , full information as to his character and reputation . '' `` Courtney , you 're a wonder , '' I said . `` I 'm glad you approve , '' he answered . `` I thought it well to move at once , so the inquiry could be in New York early this morning ; and , even if it took the whole day to investigate , the answer should be here by midnight at the latest . ''