noon
` Surely that is not a very hard thing , ' answered Rex , looking at his watch . ` It must be dinner-time , ' said Greif politely , as he noticed the action . He had no wish to detain his new acquaintance . ` Indeed , it is just noon . I fear I have kept you from some engagement . ' ` I assure you , it has given me the greatest pleasure to meet you , ' answered Greif , holding out his hand . ` The pleasure has been quite upon my side , ' returned Rex , bowing with alacrity .