noon
They will wait some time outside to see if we appear at one of the windows , and not until the roof has fallen in will they be sure that we have perished . Moreover , you can not well appear in the streets for the present in that attire , for you might well be recognized and denounced . First of all , let me persuade you to take such poor refreshments as I can offer you . '' `` Thanks , sir ; of that we shall be glad , for 't is now past noon , and we have had but a loaf we bought at a baker 's as we entered the city . '' The Fleming gave orders to the servant , and they speedily had a snow-white cloth of the finest damask on the table , and placed on it a service of silver dishes . '' 'T is well that I had my plate brought down here yesterday , '' the merchant said , smiling , `` though it hardly consorts well with the fare that I have to offer you . To-morrow , should you pay us a visit , you will find us better prepared , for , as you see , we have a fireplace at the bottom of the flue opening into the kitchen chimney .