noon
Be it as thou wilt . Let Marie 's own feelings decide the question . She _ must _ take part in this trial , either in public or private ; she _ must _ speak on oath , for life and death hang on her words , and her decision must be speedy . It is sunset now , and ere to-morrow 's noon she must have spoken , or be prepared to appear . '' Ere Queen Isabella reached her own apartments her plan was formed . Don Luis 's tale had confirmed her suspicions as to the double cause of Marie 's wretchedness ; she had herself administered to her while in that dead faint -- herself bent over her , lest the first words of returning consciousness should betray aught which the sufferer might wish concealed ; but her care had been needless : no word passed those parched and ashy lips . The frame , indeed , for some days was powerless , and she acceded eagerly to Isabella 's earnest proffer -LRB- for it was not command -RRB- to send for her attendants , and occupy a suite of rooms in the castle , close to her royal mistress , in preference to returning to her own home ; from which , in its desolate grandeur , she shrunk almost in loathing .