the sun of noon
In the twilight of the streets there was silence , save for the rush of motors and the recurrent trample of armed men . But the heart of Rue Carew was afire with song -- and every delicate vein in her ran singing to her heart . There was war in the Eastern world ; and palace and chancellery were ablaze . But they spoke of the West -- of humble places and lowly homes ; of still woodlands where mosses edged the brooks ; of peaceful villages they both had known , where long , tree-shaded streets slept in the dappled shadow under the sun of noon . * * * * * Marotte came , silent , self-respecting , very grey and tranquil in his hour of trial . There were two letters for Neeland , left by hand . And , when the old man had gone away bearing his silver tray among his heavier burdens : `` Read them , '' nodded Rue Carew .