about noon
Is he at home ? ' `` Mrs. L'Hommedieu 's eye , which had sparkled at his name , dropped suddenly as he put the final question . '' ` I am sorry , ' she returned after a moment of embarrassment , ` but my husband is very seldom home evenings . If you will come about noon some day -- ' '' ` Thank you , ' said he , with a bright smile , ` but I will finish my business now and with you , seeing that Mr. L'Hommedieu is not at home . Years ago -- I am sure you have heard your husband mention my name -- I borrowed quite a sum of money from him , which I have never paid . You recall the amount , no doubt ? ' '' ` I have heard Mr. L'Hommedieu say it was a thousand dollars , ' she replied , with a sudden fluttering of her hands indicative of great excitement . ''