noon
Although he had been absent a week he did not even offer his hand , and it never occurred to her to remind him of the omission . `` Are you in the habit of coming here alone ? If so , your visits to this neighbourhood cease . '' `` Mrs. Mason has always accompanied me until this after noon , and as she could not leave home I came alone . '' `` I prefer you should not attend strange churches without a companion , and now I will see you safely home . '' She looked up , saw a few persons ascending the broad steps , and her soul rose in rebellion ; `` What possible harm can overtake me in God 's house ? Do n't try to stand between me and my duty . ''