noon
It is one of a long series of reverses which have sorely taxed her fortitude . Another of like heaviness , and the tomb may close over her . Some such presentiment is in the mother 's mind , on this very day , as the sun goes down , and she sits in her chamber beside a dim candle , with ear keenly bent to catch the returning footsteps of her son . He has been absent since noon , having gone deer-stalking , as frequently before . She can spare him for this , and pardon his prolonged absence . She knows how fond he is of the chase ; has been so from a boy . But , on the present occasion , he is staying beyond his usual time .