noon
`` So it is , Maiden , '' said the elder , `` that many more children hath the Bear . '' `` This then we bid you , '' said the Maid , `` that ye send the tokens round and gather your people to you , and when they be assembled in the Doom-ring , then shall we put our errand before you ; and according to that , shall ye deal with us . '' `` Thou hast spoken well , '' said the elder ; `` and even so had we bidden you ourselves . To-morrow , before noon , shall ye stand in the Doom-ring in this Dale , and speak with the children of the Bear . '' Therewith he turned to his own folk and called out something , whereof those twain knew not the meaning ; and there came to him , one after another , six young men , unto each of whom he gave a thing from out his pouch , but what it was Walter might not see , save that it was little and of small account : to each , also , he spake a word or two , and straight they set off running , one after the other , turning toward the bent which was over against that whereby the twain had come into the Dale , and were soon out of sight in the gathering dusk . Then the elder turned him again to Walter and the Maid , and spake : `` Man and woman , whatsoever ye may be , or whatsoever may abide you to-morrow , to-night , ye are welcome guests to us ; so we bid you come eat and drink at our fire . '' So they sat all together upon the grass round about the embers of the fire , and ate curds and cheese , and drank milk in abundance ; and as the night grew on them they quickened the fire , that they might have light .