noon
It remained yet to be seen whether Kenelm had deceived himself in the belief that had made the world so beautiful to him since the hour of their last parting . At all events it was due to her , due even to his rival , to assert his own claim to her choice . And the more he recalled all that Lily had ever said to him of her guardian , so openly , so frankly , proclaiming affection , admiration , gratitude , the more convincingly his reasonings allayed his fears , whispering , `` So might a child speak of a parent : not so does the maiden speak of the man she loves ; she can scarcely trust herself to praise . '' In fine , it was not in despondent mood , nor with dejected looks , that , a little before noon , Kenelm crossed the bridge and re-entered the enchanted land of Grasmere . In answer to his inquiries , the servant who opened the door said that neither Mr. Melville nor Miss Mordaunt were at home ; they had but just gone out together for a walk . He was about to turn back , when Mrs. Cameron came into the hall , and , rather by gesture than words , invited him to enter . Kenelm followed her into the drawing-room , taking his seat beside her .