Noon
Samuel started , and heaved a deep sigh . A few seconds more , and the fatal term would be at an end . Rodin , Father d'Aigrigny , Gabriel , and the notary , were all under the influence of such complete surprise , that not one of them even remarked how strange it was to hear the sound of this clock . `` Noon ! '' cried Rodin , as , by an involuntary movement , he hastily placed his two hands upon the casket , as if to take possession of it . `` At last ! '' cried Father d'Aigrigny , with an expression of joy , triumph transport , which it is impossible to describe .