midday
`` Yes , it 'll do quite well -- to-day , '' answered Joan , jumping up and beginning in true housewifely fashion to set out their repast . From each child 's pocket came a crumpled pocket-handkerchief , not very large , and , if the truth must be told , not over clean . These Joan spread on the grass to serve as a tablecloth . Then Darby proceeded to distribute the rations for the midday meal -- to each a tiny tart , a slice of seed-cake , one biscuit , and a mellow russet pear . `` Now , is n't that a lovely dinner ? '' he demanded proudly ; `` and there 's nearly -- not quite , but almost -- as much more for tea , '' he added , peering into the depths of the old reticule which was slung , haversack fashion , across his shoulders . `` Yes , it 's ` licious , '' agreed Joan , with her mouth full of cracknel biscuit .