noon
The whole scene preached to his inmost soul . Doctrinal arguments and learned polemics , he could have tilted with , word for word ; but here were facts , and realities and influences , which disarmed and defied all that was skeptical in his nature . The dying man -- the priest of God -- that young and fragile girl , illustrated by their acts a faith which , though mysterious to him , could be nothing less than divine ; but Father Fabian , ignorant of the thoughts which were passing , like ripples of light , through his mind , approached , and asked him in a low voice , `` how long he supposed Mr. Stillinghast might linger ? '' `` He may live until noon to-morrow , '' said the doctor . `` He may , '' said Father Fabian , `` but I fear not , however , God 's holy will be done ! '' During the night Mr. Stillinghast 's mind wandered . May , overcome by fatigue , had leaned her head on the bed-side , and fallen into a profound sleep .