midday
`` I congratulate you , Mademoiselle , '' politely said the Major . `` It is a famous city to date from . '' It was evident that the spinster was held in reverent awe of her employer , for she guarded a judicious silence , as with a formal bow she at last left the table at the graciously permitting nod of Hugh Johnstone . There was a cold and brooding restraint , which had seemed to cast a chill even over the sultry Indian midday , but Justine 's smile was bright and winning as she faintly acknowledged with a blushing cheek Major Hawke 's gallantry as he sprang up and opened the door for the retiring lady . `` She will come , she will come , '' gayly throbbed the Major 's happy heart . Alan Hawke was now thoroughly on his guard . He had never lifted an eyebrow at the mention of Miss Johnstone .