noon
This the young Earl said with a smile of conscious triumph , as in fact he valued himself not a little upon the interest which he supposed himself to possess with the fair sex . Meanwhile the letter impressed on Peveril a different train of thoughts from what his companion apprehended . It was in Alice 's hand , and contained these few words : -- `` I fear what I am going to do is wrong ; but I must see you . Meet me at noon at Goddard Crovan 's Stone , with as much secrecy as you may . '' The letter was signed only with the initials A. B. ; but Julian had no difficulty in recognising the handwriting , which he had often seen , and which was remarkably beautiful . He stood suspended , for he saw the difficulty and impropriety of withdrawing himself from the Countess and his friend at this moment of impending danger ; and yet , to neglect this invitation was not to be thought of . He paused in the utmost perplexity .