midday
Are they quiet and well-disposed people , seeking in all things the good of the people , and giving due reverence to Holy Church ? '' Paul answered eagerly in the affirmative . He had heard or seen nothing of a suspicious character of late , and had grown very fond of the kindly folks , who made him so welcome to the best of what they had . His reply was considered very satisfactory , and the prior dismissed him with his blessing ; for Paul had no wish to be belated in the forest , and proposed to return immediately after the midday meal which he had shared with the brothers . It was in somewhat thoughtful mood that he pursued his way through the woodland paths . Conversation about the burning questions of the day always left him with a feeling akin to depression . He longed for the restoration of the house he loved and served , but knew that a transitory triumph was not a true victory .