noon
The cool _ insouciance _ of such a proceeding amused me much , and I resolved to draw him out a little . His strong , broad Breton features , his deep voice , his dry , blunt manner , were all in admirable keeping with his exterior . ``` _ Par Dieu _ , my lad , ' said he , after chatting some time , ` had you not better tell the Emperor that I am waiting ? It 's now past noon , and I must eat something . ' ``` Have a little patience , ' said I ; ` his Majesty is going to invite you to dinner . ' ``` Be it so , ' said he , gravely ; ` provided the hour be an early one , I 'm his man . ' `` With difficulty did I keep down my laughter as he said this , and continued .