noon
`` I desire no thanks for the faithful discharge of my duty as a guardian : my conscience acquits me fully , and that is the reward I value most . If you really indulge any grateful sentiments on the eve of your departure , oblige me by singing something . I bought that organ , hoping that now and then when my business permitted me to spend a quiet evening at home , I might enjoy your music ; but you sedulously avoid touching it when I am present . This is the last opportunity you will have , for I must meet Mr. Chesley at noon to-morrow in Baltimore , and thence I go on to Cincinnati , where I shall be detained , until the steamer has sailed . After to-night I shall not see my ward again . '' They were standing near the azalea , and Regina suddenly put her hand on the back of a chair . To see him no more after this evening -- to know that the broad ocean rolled between -- that she might never again look upon the face that was so inexpressibly dear ; -- all this swept over her like a bitter murderous wave , drowning the sweetness of her life , and she clung to the chair .