noon
In the crisis of his dilemma over this proposition William consulted `` Chuck '' Epstein , and the result of their deliberations was the sending to the prospective bride of a parrot `` that could talk to beat the band , '' as William said . Epstein never told him that he had himself paid the original owner of the parrot a larger amount than William could spare , and had arranged with him to accept the sum that the boy offered . And of all the gifts that Flo Dearmore received from others but the man of her choice , that parrot pleased her most , `` For , '' said she , `` he is the slangiest bird imaginable , and sometimes he uses swear words -- just like my Tommy . '' The wedding , which took place at `` high noon '' in an Anglican church , was a wonderful experience for William . With `` Chuck '' Epstein , he had a good seat near the altar , and many were the smiles and knowing nods exchanged between other invited guests at the evident eagerness of the lad to take in all the proceedings . And yet no other person , perhaps , in the assembly -- and it was a large one -- felt more than William the real solemnity of the ceremony . He was not very clear as to his exact feelings , but the dignity of the rector , the simple beauty of the marriage ritual , the singing of the choir , the love light in the eyes of the bride and of Tommy , combined to impress him profoundly .