midday
When I reached them I found what I expected there , and the hideous birds croaked down on me as if in derision , for what was lying there was past all aid of man . I came back as I went , and Diane asked : `` Is there anyone there , monsieur ? '' `` No , mademoiselle . And 't is almost time for our midday halt ; a little farther on and we will rest . '' Diane turned her horse 's head , and I was about to turn back once more to my place when she said in a low tone : `` Monsieur , I have something to say to you . '' I bowed , and rode up beside her . And we let the men go onward , dropping together to the place I had left in the rear .