noon
I have no idea of marriage , -- the gloomy reminiscence of Florence Lascelles chains me to the past . '' `` Poor Florence , she might once have suited you ; but now you are older , and would require a calmer and more malleable temper . '' `` Peace , I implore you ! '' The conversation was changed ; and at noon Mr. Merton , who had heard of Cleveland 's arrival , called at Burleigh to renew an old acquaintance . He invited them to pass the evening at the rectory ; and Cleveland , hearing that whist was a regular amusement , accepted the invitation for his host and himself . But when the evening came , Maltravers pleaded indisposition , and Cleveland was obliged to go alone . When the old gentleman returned about midnight , he found Maltravers awaiting him in the library ; and Cleveland , having won fourteen points , was in a very gay , conversable humour .