noon
It 's very important . Do n't keep us waiting ! '' And Billie , in a voice she tried hard to keep natural , said that they would not keep her waiting . And when she imparted the mysterious message to Laura and Vi they gaped at her , then pulled her down on a bench -- it was noon and they had come out for a bit of sunshine and fresh air before the afternoon lessons -- and showered her with questions . `` But , Billie , did n't she say why she wanted to see us ? '' cried Laura . `` And who wanted to see us ? ''