noon
The dead waxen whiteness of his face was thrown into startling relief by his great black eyes , in which there was a depth and a fire when he was roused that contrasted strongly with his aged appearance . His dress was simple in the extreme , and of the darkest colors . The three sat in their easy-chairs round the coal fire . It was high noon in London , and the weather was moderately fine ; that is to say , it was possible to read in the room without lighting the gas . X held a telegram in his hand . `` This is a perfectly clear case against us , '' he remarked in a quiet , business-like manner . `` It has occurred at such an unfortunate time , '' said Y , who spoke very slowly and distinctly , with an English accent .