midday
He knew nothing of the latter 's objection to his presence in the house , and he knew nothing of the blind man 's threats , or that fearful attack he had perpetrated in one of his fits of mad passion . These days , so delightful to them both , so brimful of happiness for him , so fraught with such a blending of pain and sweetness for her , had stolen along almost uncounted , unheeded . But like all such overshadowed delights , their end came swiftly , ruthlessly . The signal was given at the midday meal . The rancher , who had never mentioned Tresler 's name since that memorable night , rose from the table to retire to his room . At the door he paused and turned . `` That man , Tresler , '' he said , in his smooth , even tones .