noon
This man 's action proved that he was not altogether indifferent to her , and it was hardly likely that he was the only one among Vasilici 's followers who might be ready to speak a word for her , perhaps even strike a blow for her , could she stir them sufficiently . Brigandage was not the natural calling of many who had flocked to Vasilici 's standard , nor were they likely to rest contented with Vasilici 's leadership for long . Were they not even now waiting for a message from the Queen , to whom in the future they would look for favor ? At noon , when a halt was called , this same man saw that Maritza had sufficient to eat , and replaced the flask of wine given her by another , saying that it was better and that she would want all her strength . He took no notice of Anton , who , by the Princess 's instructions , spoke to no one unless he were spoken to . She wanted to draw as little attention to him as possible , and sought by various means to show that he was a servant only , and not a very highly valued one . She felt that his insignificance might render him trebly valuable under certain conditions .