About noon
And again he flew out of the house , leaving Dr Lyster unaffectedly concerned for him , and too kind-hearted and too wise to be offended at the injustice of immoderate sorrow . In a few minutes , however , from the effect rather of despair than philosophy , Delvile grew more composed , and waited upon Dr Lyster to apologize for his behaviour . He received his hearty forgiveness , and prevailed upon him to continue in town till the whole was decided . About noon , Cecilia , from the wildest rambling and most perpetual agitation , sunk suddenly into a state of such utter insensibility , that she appeared unconscious even of her existence ; and but that she breathed , she might already have passed for being dead . When Delvile heard this , he could no longer endure even his post upon the stairs ; he spent his whole time in wandering about the streets , or stopping in Dr Lyster 's parlour to enquire if all was over . That humane physician , not more alarmed at the danger of Cecilia , than grieved at the situation of Delvile , thought the present fearful crisis at least offered an opportunity of reconciling him with his father . He waited , therefore , upon that gentleman in St James 's - square , and openly informed him of the dangerous state of Cecilia , and the misery of his son .