an hour before noon
Heathcliff , aware that his opponent was ignorant of the treatment received while insensible , called him deliriously intoxicated ; and said he should not notice his atrocious conduct further , but advised him to get to bed . To my joy , he left us , after giving this judicious counsel , and Hindley stretched himself on the hearthstone . I departed to my own room , marvelling that I had escaped so easily . ` This morning , when I came down , about half an hour before noon , Mr. Earnshaw was sitting by the fire , deadly sick ; his evil genius , almost as gaunt and ghastly , leant against the chimney . Neither appeared inclined to dine , and , having waited till all was cold on the table , I commenced alone . Nothing hindered me from eating heartily , and I experienced a certain sense of satisfaction and superiority , as , at intervals , I cast a look towards my silent companions , and felt the comfort of a quiet conscience within me . After I had done , I ventured on the unusual liberty of drawing near the fire , going round Earnshaw 's seat , and kneeling in the corner beside him .