noon
The King was about to send forth to Crandlemar to enquire of his Grace of Ellswold . We asked for the service , that we might gain sight of thy rare beauty . We are about to pay our respects to the Duke who lies yonder , and at the King 's order bring him important news . We have heard , however , his condition is most critical , and we can not see him until high noon to-morrow , as the midday finds him stronger . And I must see thee , sweet one , again before the night is over . I can not wait for the morrow 's noon . '' He caught her hand and pressed his lips to it , resting himself against the horse , his arm thrown carelessly across Constance ' knee .