noon
But the streets were empty , the shops were closed , and lights were visible only in the second stories of a few dwelling-houses . At length , on the corner of a narrow lane , through which he was passing , he beheld the broad countenance of a British hero swinging before the door of an inn , whence proceeded the voices of many guests . The casement of one of the lower windows was thrown back , and a very thin curtain permitted Robin to distinguish a party at supper , round a well-furnished table . The fragrance of the good cheer steamed forth into the outer air , and the youth could not fail to recollect that the last remnant of his travelling stock of provision had yielded to his morning appetite , and that noon had found and left him dinnerless . `` Oh , that a parchment three-penny might give me a right to sit down at yonder table ! '' said Robin , with a sigh . `` But the Major will make me welcome to the best of his victuals ; so I will even step boldly in , and inquire my way to his dwelling . ''