about noon
I was glad she asked me to let the horse go at full speed ; it was the most soothing thing which could happen at that time . As he flew along I could affect to be busy with the cares of driving , and so escape the trials of conversation . I spoke to my lovely companion only three times in the eight miles between her house and the grove . The first time I remarked , `` We are going to have a warm day '' ; the second , `` I think the day will be quite warm '' ; the third time I launched out boldly : `` Do n't you think , Miss Marigold , we shall have it rather warm about noon ? '' `` You seem to feel the heat more than I do , '' she answered , demurely , which was true , for she looked as cool as a cucumber and as comfortable as a mouse in a cheese , while I was mopping my face every other minute with my handkerchief . When we reached the picnic grounds she offered to hold the reins while I got out . As I lifted her down , the whole company , who had been watching for our arrival , burst out laughing .