noon
Still Guy persevered indefatigably , sitting up with him every night , and showing himself an invaluable nurse , with his tender hand , modulated voice , quick eye , and quiet activity . His whole soul was engrossed : he never appeared to think of himself , or to be sensible of fatigue ; but was only absorbed in the one thought of his patient 's comfort ! He seldom came to Amabel except at meals , and now and then for a short visit to her sitting-room to report on Philip 's condition . If he could spare a little more time when Philip was in a state of stupor , she used to try to persuade him to take some rest ; and if it was late , or in the heat of noon , she could sometimes get him , as a favour to her , to lie down on the sofa , and let her read to him ; but it did not often end in sleep , and he usually preferred taking her out into the fresh air , and wandering about among the chestnut-trees and green hillocks higher up in the ravine . Very precious were these walks , with the quiet grave talk that the scene and the circumstances inspired -- when he would tell the thoughts that had occupied him in his night-watches , and they shared the subdued and deep reflection suited to this period of apprehension . These were her happiest times , but they were few and uncertain . She had in the meantime to wait , to watch , and hope alone , though she had plenty of employment ; for besides writing constant bulletins , all preparations for the sickroom fell to her share .