noon
` That , of course , is perhaps possible , ' said Laurent ` I will contrive to see her in the course of the day , and you may trust an old doctor 's _ savoir faire _ . She shall not guess that you sent me . ' Immediately upon this the doctor 's servant rapped at the door to say that all was ready , and Paul took his leave . He went immediately to his study , and there the embers of last night 's fire , being fanned ever so little , began to glow again , and he became absorbed in his work , insomuch that when the bell rang for déjeûner at noon he was amazed to notice how quickly time had flown . When he got to table Annette was in her place , still looking a trifle pale and heavy-eyed , but evidently much relieved since he had last seen her . ` I want you to do me a little favour , Paul , ' she said ` Yes , ' he answered gaily . ` I want what you call -- what is your word for it ?