noon
For , alas , though Lucy had never responded to my proffered vows of affection , yet had I ever nurtured in my heart a secret hope that I was not altogether uncared for . Every look she had given me , every word she had spoken , the tone of her voice , her step , her every gesture , were before me , all confirming my delusion , and yet , -- I could bear no more , and burst into tears . The loud call of a cavalry trumpet aroused me . How long I had passed in this state of despondency I knew not ; but it was long past noon when I rallied myself . My charger was already awaiting me ; and a second blast of the trumpet told that the inspection in the Plaza was about to commence . As I continued to dress , I gradually rallied from my depressing thoughts ; and ere I belted my sabretasche , the current of my ideas had turned from their train of sadness to one of hardihood and daring . Lucy Dashwood had treated me like a wilful schoolboy .