noon
But finding that a frown more than sufficed to restore the gravity of these gentry , I set down the appearance to my own self-consciousness , and , stroking my moustachios , strode along boldly until I saw before me , and coming to meet me , the same page who had delivered the note . He stopped in front of me with an air of consequence , and making me a low bow -- whereat I saw the bystanders stare , for he was as gay a young spark as maid-of-honour could desire -- he begged me to hasten , as the king awaited me in his closet . ` He has asked for you twice , sir , ' he continued importantly , the feather of his cap almost sweeping the ground . ` I think , ' I answered , quickening my steps , ` that the king 's letter says noon , young sir . If I am late on such an occasion , he has indeed cause to complain of me . ' ` Tut , tut ! ' he rejoined waving his hand with a dandified ` It is no matter .