noon
His eyes rested amorously upon her ; for 't was naught but strong , healthful youth could predicate such reply and vouch for its assertion by such rich colouring of cheek , such rare sparkling of eyes and such ripeness of lips . She sat at the chimney-nook , her satin gown trailing at her side , her cloak thrown over the back of the high chair . Their Graces were engaged aside with the landlord and servants . `` We will rest here until noon , anyway , '' one said , `` and if they have not arrived we will set out without them . '' Katherine heard and thought 't was Constance whom they were expecting ; and when a table was drawn close to the fire and covers laid for four , there being but three to sit down , Katherine looked askance at the vacant place ; the Dukes exchanged glances and his Grace of Buckingham turned to her quickly , introducing himself , then Monmouth , and explained that at the last moment Lady Constance had been prevailed upon to accompany them to London and was expected every moment . Mistress Penwick had flushed at the presentation of two such noble names , but at his following assertion , which corroborated with Constance ' own words , made her not a little jealous ; for the handsome young Monmouth had already shown his regard -LRB- God pity her innocence -RRB- for Lady Constance by giving her a valuable ring , and now had contrived to make her of their party that he might be constantly with her . She straightway became very sober-minded , vouchsafing no remarks and inviting none .