noon
Before he reached the mews he was very near wishing he had never seen her . But when he led her into the stable , he was a little encouraged as well as surprised to find that she had not forgotten Florimel 's horse . They had always been a little friendly , and now they greeted each other with an affectionate neigh ; after which , with the help of all she could devour , the demoness was quieter . Before noon Lord Liftore came round to the mews : his riding horses were there . Malcolm was not at the moment in the stable . `` What animal is that ? '' he asked of his own groom , catching sight of Kelpie in her loose box .