noon
He stated how much his interests depended upon the favour of his present employer , who had used the most powerful arguments to detain him , but declared that , when his situation should become , in the least degree , perilous , he would slight every consideration of gratitude and interest , and fly to _ Malverton _ . Meanwhile , he promised to communicate tidings of his safety by every opportunity . Belding , Mr. Hadwin 's next neighbour , though not uninfected by the general panic , persisted to visit the city daily with his _ market-cart _ . He set out by sunrise , and usually returned by noon . By him a letter was punctually received by Susan . As the hour of Belding 's return approached , her impatience and anxiety increased . The daily epistle was received and read , in a transport of eagerness .