noon
He paused at this , for , besides the practical proof of kindness to Theo which he felt would thus be given , a sudden pleasure seized upon and expanded his little soul . To go over _ there _ : to save Theo the trouble , and for himself to burst forth into a new world , a universe of sensations unknown , -- into freedom , independence , self-guidance ! An exhilaration and sentiment hitherto unexperienced went up in fumes to Geoff 's brain . It was scarcely noon , a still and beautiful October day ; the sky as blue as summer , the trees all russet and gold , the air with just enough chill in it to make breathing a keen delight . Why not now ? These words , Geoff said afterwards , came into his mind as if somebody had said them : and the boldness and wildness of daring suggested ran through his little veins like wine . He rather flew than ran to the stables , which were sadly shorn of their ancient splendour , two horses and Geoff 's pony being all that remained .