noon
Popenjoy 's visit to Cross Hall was arranged with a good deal of state , and was made on the following Tuesday . On the Monday there came a message to say that the child should be brought up at twelve on the following day . The Marquis was not coming himself , and the child would of course be inspected by all the ladies . At noon they were assembled in the drawing-room ; but they were kept there waiting for half an hour , during which the Marchioness repeatedly expressed her conviction that now , at the last moment , she was to be robbed of the one great desire of her heart . `` He wo n't let him come because he 's so angry with George , '' she said , sobbing . `` He would n't have sent a message yesterday , mother , '' said Lady Amelia , `` if he had n't meant to send him . '' `` You are all so very unkind to him , '' ejaculated the Marchioness .