noon
After all , she coveted the candlestick . Half an hour later an orderly was riding to the fort with instructions to return at once with Miss Calhoun 's candlestick . It is on record that they were `` love '' sets , which goes to prove that Beverly took no chances . Count Marlanx , puffing and perspiring , his joints dismayed and his brain confused , rode away at noon with Baron Dangloss . Beverly , quite happy in her complete victory , enjoyed a nap of profound sweetness and then was ready for her walk with the princess . They were strolling leisurely about the beautiful grounds , safe in the shade of the trees from the heat of the July sun , when Baron Dangloss approached . `` Your royal highness , '' he began , with his fierce smile , `` may I beg a moment 's audience ? ''