noon
I will rest till noon if not later , '' said Diana . `` You shall not be interrupted , '' was the response , and Diana was left alone . She tried to sleep , so that she might be stronger and cooler for the business she had in hand ; but the excitement under which she laboured effectually chased away drowsiness . A little after noon the woman of the house looked in , and finding her lodger awake , entered into conversation , commencing by suggesting some refreshment . Diana shook her head . `` Ah , my food is very plain and humble , '' said the old woman . `` I ca n't give you such dainties as the people over yonder eat . ''