noon
Afterwards , prostrate on the cot , his face to the wall , he debated with himself , and concluded : `` The Greek is capable of any villany he sets about -- of abduction and murder -- and now indeed must Lael beware ! '' We will now take the liberty of reopening the audience chamber of the palace of Blacherne , presuming the reader holds it in recollection . It is the day when , by special appointment , the Prince of India appears before the Emperor Constantine to present his idea of a basis for Universal Religious Union . The hour is exactly noon . A report of the Prince 's former audience with His Majesty had awakened general curiosity to see the stranger and hear his discourse . This was particularly the feeling in spiritual circles ; by which term the most influential makers of public opinion are meant . A sharp though decorous rivalry for invitations to be present on the occasion ensued .