noon
The knights had now fallen out from their ranks , and were soon laughing and talking gaily . Being all of noble families and knightly rank , there was , except when on actual duty , a tone of perfect equality and good fellowship prevailing among them . French was the common language , for as the Order was of French foundation , and three of the seven langues belonged to that country , most of the high dignitaries being chosen from their ranks , it was natural that the French language should be the general medium of communication between them . Until noon the slaves rowed steadily and well . Work was then stopped , for there was scarce a breath of wind stirring the water . Even under the awning that had , as the sun gained power , been erected over the poop , the heat was oppressive . The knights had all divested themselves of their armour , and most of them retired below for a siesta .