midday
My room was in the rear of the house . Between me and the high wall was a dense tangle of underbrush , barely visible in the dim light . Hastily undressing , I went to bed without further delay , and was soon in deep sleep . When I awoke it was near midday . Dressing as quickly as possible , I proceeded at once to the library , where my uncle sat waiting for me . He conducted me to the breakfast room -- a well-lighted and cheerful apartment -- where he served me with his own hands . `` You shall stay , sir -- you shall stay , '' said he , laying his hand on my shoulder as he sat down beside me , with a smiling face .