noon
The cup was almost at my lips , and I did not think God would allow it to be dashed away so quickly . I must manage somehow to make Philip cease to care for me , but I think I am the most miserable woman in the world . '' Frances never forgot that long , hot drive into Martinstown . She reached the lawyer 's house at a little before noon , and the heat was then so great that when she found herself in his office she nearly fainted . `` You look really ill , Miss Kane , '' said the man of business , inwardly commenting under his breath on how very rapidly Frances was ageing . `` Oh , you have come from your father ; yes , I was afraid that letter would be a blow to him ; still , I see no way out of it -- I really do n't ! '' `` I have never liked you much , Mr. Spens , '' said Frances Kane .