noon
It would be natural to say -- '' `` I owe him a visit , '' remarked Will . They talked of other things . All at once Warburton had become aware that he was hungry ; he had not broken his fast to-day . Happily , the clock on the mantelpiece pointed towards noon . And at this moment there sounded voices within the house , followed by a tap at the study door which opened , admitting Mrs. Pomfret . The lady advanced with hospitable greeting ; homely of look and speech , she had caught her husband 's smile , and something of his manner -- testimony to the happiness of a long wedded life . Behind her came the figure of youth and grace which Warburton 's eyes expected ; very little changed since he last saw it , in the Valley of Trient , Warburton was conscious of an impression that the young lady saw him again with pleasure .