noon
It was , however , his description of the column of light Lizzie Tuoey saw over against the mantel , a shining white shroud through which the crudely painted Rock of Ages was visible , insulated in the glass bell . Oh , yes , there was a soldier , but in the uniform that might be seen passing the Meekers any hour of the day , and unnaturally hanging in a traditional and very highly sanctified manner . The room was filled with a coldness that made Lizzie 's flesh crawl . It was as bright as noon ; the circle about the table was rigid , as if it had been frozen into immobility , while Jannie 's breathing was audible and hoarse . Mrs. Kraemer stood wrung with horror , a shaking hand sparkling with diamonds raised to her face . It was a lie , she cried in shrill , penetrating tones . August could n't do such a thing .