noon
Entering this place , Diana made a slender meal , and then , telling the ancient dame who kept the house that she was fatigued , demanded to be shown where she could repose for an hour or two . The old woman ushered her into a small , meanly-furnished apartment at the front of the house . `` Do not disturb me . 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 .