about noon
But , on the other hand , Hubert 's goshawk Margaret , a fiery little creature , named inappropriately enough after his tranquil aunt , as a rule did better than Anthony 's Isabel , and brought the scores level again . There was one superb day that survived long in Anthony 's memory and conversation ; when he had done exceptionally well , when Eliza had surpassed herself , and even Isabel had acquitted herself with credit . It was one of those glorious days of wind and sun that occasionally fall in early October , with a pale turquoise sky overhead , and air that seems to sparkle and intoxicate like wine . They went out together after dinner about noon ; their ponies and spaniels danced with the joy of life ; Lady Maxwell cried to them from the north terrace to be careful , and pointed out to Mr. Norris who had dined with them what a graceful seat Hubert had ; and then added politely , but as an obvious afterthought , that Anthony seemed to manage his pony with great address . The boys turned off through the village , and soon got on to high ground to the west of the village and all among the stubble and mustard , with tracts of rich sunlit country , of meadows and russet woodland below them on every side . Then the sport began . It seemed as if Eliza could not make a mistake .