noon
BOOK IX . It was merry Christmas at St. Geneviève . There was a yule log blazing on every hearth in that wide domain , from the hall of the squire to the peasant 's roof . The Buttery Hatch was open for the whole week from noon to sunset ; all comers might take their fill , and each carry away as much bold beef , white bread , and jolly ale as a strong man could bear in a basket with one hand . For every woman a red cloak , and a coat of broadcloth for every man . All day long , carts laden with fuel and warm raiment were traversing the various districts , distributing comfort and dispensing cheer . For a Christian gentleman of high degree was Eustace Lyle .