noon
He acknowledged in life no such thing as accident . Whatever his struggles , whatever his melancholy , whatever his sense of worldly wrong , he never despaired ; for nothing now could shake his belief in one directing Providence . The ways and habits of Vaudemont were not at discord with those of the quiet household in which he was now a guest . Like most men of strong frames , and accustomed to active , not studious pursuits , he rose early ; -- and usually rode to London , to come back late at noon to their frugal meal . And if again , perhaps after the hour when Fanny and Simon retired , he would often return to London , his own pass-key re-admitted him , at whatever time he came back , without disturbing the sleep of the household . Sometimes , when the sun began to decline , if the air was warm , the old man would crawl out , leaning on that strong arm , through the neighbouring lanes , ever returning through the lonely burial-ground ; or when the blind host clung to his fireside , and composed himself to sleep , Philip would saunter forth along with Fanny ; and on the days when she went to sell her work , or select her purchases , he always made a point of attending her . And her cheek wore a flush of pride when she saw him carrying her little basket , or waiting without , in musing patience , while she performed her commissions in the shops .