noon
The day passed by , and Jussuf did not perceive how the hours flew away : the sun was just sinking ; then his playfellow sprang over a neighbouring bush , and cried , `` Good night . '' As she passed over the flowers of the bush , she disappeared from Jussuf 's eyes , and he saw only the butterfly flying . When he returned to the palace , his servants were much rejoiced . They had waited for him since noon , and had searched for him in the gardens , as an embassy had been sent from the capital to bring him news that the Princess had suddenly fallen ill . He caused the messengers to be brought before him , to learn from them all the attendant circumstances . He discovered from them that she had retired to rest early the preceding evening , and had risen quite well in the morning after a peaceful slumber ; but hardly had the sun shone half an hour , when she fell , and was obliged to be carried to her apartments . She soon came to herself , but felt very weak , and informed her sorrowing father that she must die .