about noon
Her father was much pleased , as he too had not outlived the effect produced upon him by the visit of Bouchette . Furthermore , the weather may have contributed to the pleasantness that reigned in the house . The sun was shining brightly , the wind had fallen , and the snow lay crisp upon the streets inviting to a promenade . Hardinge called about noon for the purpose of asking Pauline to accompany him in a little walk . `` I have a couple of hours before me -- a thing I may not have every day -- and a ramble will do both of us good , '' he said . Pauline was soon ready with the cordial consent of her father . After wandering through the streets for some time , and stopping to speak to friends whom they met , the two wended their way towards Cape Diamond .