noon
Mary made her visitors point out Bridgefield , and asked questions about all that could be seen of the house and pleasance , which , in truth , was little enough , but she contrived to set Cis off into a girl 's chatter about her home occupations , and would not let her be hushed . `` You little know the good it does a captive to take part , only in fancy , in a free harmless life , '' returned Mary , with the wistful look that made her eyes so pathetic . `` There is no refreshment to me like a child 's prattle . '' Susan 's heart smote her as she thought of the true relations in which these two stood to one another , and she forbore from further interference ; but she greatly rejoiced when the great bell of the castle gave notice of noon , and of her own release . When Queen Mary 's dinner was served , the Talbot ladies in attendance left her and repaired to the general family meal in the hall . A period now began of daily penance to Mrs. Talbot , of daily excitement and delight to Cis . Two hours or more had to be spent in attendance on Queen Mary .