midday
Then I must ride forward and search for it , and at that time Howel was close to me , and together we rode yet a little farther into the circle that the cliffs made , and as we drew closer to the edge of the pool I scanned every inch of the ground , seeking the sword which it seemed impossible that I should not find . `` It has gone , '' said Howel in a hushed voice . And at that moment I saw a sparkle among the new grass at the very edge of the bog that surrounded the pool , and I threw the reins to the prince and sprang from my horse and went toward it . The light was very dull here , though it was nigh midday now , and indeed so high and overhanging were the cliffs that I do not think the sun ever reached the surface of the pool , save at this high midsummer , and then but as it passed athwart the narrow entrance , which faced south . Then it would send its rays across the pool full on the face of the menhir , as it seemed . So I could see nought again until I was close to the spot whence the spark shone , and then I caught it once more , and hastily I cleared aside the rank grass with my spear butt , and lo ! even as she had seen it in dreams the sword of Owen was there , and it was the gleam from the gem in its hilt , which no damp could dim , which had caught my eye .