noon
O no , the destroyer stayed not in his course , but drew stealthily along , and aimed his dart secretly but surely , at his victim . It was a chilly day in early spring ; vegetation was just arousing from winter 's sleep , and the spring blossoms were just beginning to peep from their casing of green , when this little bud of beauty perished from earth . She lay in the cradle usually , because it wearied her to be held in the lap . It was noon , when the mother bent over her to administer some nourishment , and thought she perceived a change upon her countenance . The same glad smile rested upon her features , but it was more heavenly in its expression . She seated herself by the cradle , and raised her affectionately in her arms , saying as she did so , `` My dear child , I shall not lay you down again till you look better . '' She looked at her a few moments , her blue orbs were turned to heaven , and by their earnest gaze seemed penetrating the glories of the upper world .