about noon
Convinced , however , by the dreadful situation to which his prescriptions had lately reduced her that he was unworthy of her confidence , she determined to dismiss him : but she could not do this , as she had a considerable sum to pay him , till Marriott 's return , because she could not trust any one but Marriott to let him up the private staircase into the boudoir . During Marriott 's absence , her ladyship suffered no one to attend her but a maid who was remarkable for her stupidity . She thought that she could have nothing to fear from this girl 's spirit of inquiry , for never was any human being so destitute of curiosity . It was about noon when Belinda and Marriott arrived . Lady Delacour , who had passed a restless night , was asleep . When she awoke , she found Marriott standing beside her bed . `` Then it is all in vain , I see , '' cried her ladyship : `` Miss Portman is not with you ?