noon
`` Truly , '' said Amelia , `` I came here with a heavy heart . It will be for me the saddest birthday I have ever had . My mother has not yet spoken to any one of her loss but myself , but it will not be possible to keep the secret much longer . My father returns to the Castle at noon , and he will certainly ask her where the ring is . It was a gift to her on the day when I was born , and on every succeeding birthday she has worn it . Farewell , '' said Amelia , turning to Mary , `` I will tell my mother that I consider you are innocent , but who will believe me ? '' Her eyes filled with tears , and she left the cottage with a sad heart .