noon
`` Few men can support such a veil of hypocrisy as that with which I sometimes think Denbigh must deceive even himself . His case is an extraordinary exception to a very sacred rule -- ` that the tree is known by its fruits , ' '' replied her aunt . `` There is no safer way of judging of character that one 's opportunities will not admit of more closely investigating , than by examining into and duly appreciating early impressions . The man or woman who has constantly seen the practice of piety before them , from infancy to the noon of life , will seldom so far abandon the recollection of virtue as to be guilty of great enormities . Even Divine Truth has promised that his blessings or his curses shall extend to many generations . It is true , that with our most most guarded prudence we may be deceived . '' Mrs. Wilson paused and sighed heavily , as her own case , connected with the loves of Denbigh and her niece , occurred strongly to her mind .