noon
But aware of the danger of sudden repletion of heavy food to one in his condition , Israel , previously recruited by the frugal meal at the inn , partook but sparingly . The repast was spread on the grass , and being over , the good knight again looking inquisitively at Israel , ordered a comfortable bed to be laid in the barn , and here Israel spent a capital night . After breakfast , next morning , he was proceeding to go with the laborers to their work , when his employer approaching him with a benevolent air , bade him return to his couch , and there remain till he had slept his fill , and was in a better state to resume his labors . Upon coming forth again a little after noon , he found Sir John walking alone in the grounds . Upon discovering him , Israel would have retreated , fearing that he might intrude ; but beckoning him to advance , the knight , as Israel drew nigh , fixed on him such a penetrating glance , that our poor hero quaked to the core . Neither was his dread of detection relieved by the knight 's now calling in a loud voice for one from the house . Israel was just on the point of fleeing , when overhearing the words of the master to the servant who now appeared , all dread departed : `` Bring hither some wine ! ''