noon
Was not his very helplessness a plea beyond the power of words ? She had only to look at the white shadow of humanity holding her hand , and remember the gay , gallant , handsome soldier who had wooed her under the water-beeches , to feel that all the love of her life was too little to repay his devotion . And so quickly , so quickly , went the happy moments ! Ere Katherine had half said , `` I love thee , '' Mrs. Gordon reminded her that it was near the noon ; `` and I have an excellent plan , '' she continued ; `` you can leave my veil and cloak in the coach , and I will leave you at the first convenient place near your home . At the turn of the road , one sees nobody but your excellent father or brother , or perhaps Justice Van Gaasbeek , all of whom we may avoid , if you will but consider the time . '' `` Then we must part , _ my Katherine _ , for a little . When will you come again ? ''