about noon
Other subjects , however , occupied the rector 's mind . `` I shall not sleep at home to-night , '' he continued . `` I have just met with an old friend , and promised to accompany him . I shall return probably about noon to-morrow . Thomas , the clerk , is engaged , and I can not get him to sleep in the house , as I usually do when I am absent for a night . Now -- '' `` Now , '' interrupted Shirley , `` you want me as a gentleman -- the first gentleman in Briarfield , in short -- to supply your place , be master of the rectory and guardian of your niece and maids while you are away ? '' `` Exactly , captain .