noon
It was in this hall that Harold returned the magnanimous answer to the ambassador of his rebel brother . Oft have I heard my father kindle as he told the tale . The envoy of Tosti was admitted , when this ample room could scarce contain the crowd of noble Saxon leaders , who were quaffing the blood-red wine around their monarch . '' `` I hope , '' said Athelstane , somewhat moved by this part of his friend 's discourse , `` they will not forget to send us some wine and refactions at noon -- we had scarce a breathing-space allowed to break our fast , and I never have the benefit of my food when I eat immediately after dismounting from horseback , though the leeches recommend that practice . '' Cedric went on with his story without noticing this interjectional observation of his friend . `` The envoy of Tosti , '' he said , `` moved up the hall , undismayed by the frowning countenances of all around him , until he made his obeisance before the throne of King Harold . `` ` What terms , ' he said , ` Lord King , hath thy brother Tosti to hope , if he should lay down his arms , and crave peace at thy hands ? '