An hour before noon
As the sun flashed out the Lady Margaret seemed animated with new strength . Her father trembled at the suggestion -- what if she should recover ! Thus hope feeds upon the wishes of the heart . An hour before noon the Count Montfort , accompanied by Albert of Hers , entered the apartment . Sir Albert , obeying a look which the maiden gave him , advanced , and with much emotion pronounced the words , `` My lady , I am here ! '' Sir Sandrit had anticipated all ; nor did his son manifest the least surprise . They both stood sorrowful and mute , nor did anger and disdain appear in the features with which they were so familiar .