noon
`` Because it was a toss-up of a run to Ireland or here , and I came here not to go there ; and , by the way , fetched a jug with me to offer up to the gods of ill-luck ; and they accepted the propitiation . '' `` Was n't it packed in a box ? '' `` No , it was wrapped in paper , to show its elegant form . I caught sight of it in the shop yesterday and carried it off this morning , and presented it to Miss Middleton at noon , without any form at all . '' Willoughby knew his friend Horace 's mood when the Irish tongue in him threatened to wag . `` You see what may happen , '' he said to Clara . `` As far as I am in fault I regret it , '' she answered .