midday
Behind his voiceless misery was immeasurable hatred of those who had struck him this blow ; at moments a revengeful fury all but maddened him . He held his mother 's band ; if he could but feel one pressure of the slight fingers before they were impotent for ever ! And this much was granted him . Shortly before midday the open eyes trembled to consciousness , the lips moved in endeavour to speak . To Hubert it seemed that his intense gaze had worked a miracle , effecting that which his will demanded . She saw him and understood . ` Mother , can you speak ?