noon
_ * * * * * _ Poise the cause in justice ' equal scales , Whose beam stands sure ? _ It was ten o'clock when we stretched our weary legs under the breakfast table of Meg Mullen , who had prepared for us a quartette of fat mutton chops , with salt pork , baked potatoes , a huge omelet and a boiling pot of black tea , sent , as she said , by the Emperor of China for the guests of the Boar 's Head Tavern ! Meg was a jolly wench , and garnished her food with pleasant words and witty quips , believing that love and laughter aided digestion and cheered the traveler in his journey of life . I reminded William that he had a business engagement with the great theatrical monarch , Richard Burbage , at noon at the Blackfriars . The Bard was ready for a stroll , and after brushing our clothes and smiling at the variegated guests , we sauntered into the street toward the Thames , and soon found the entrance to the renowned Blackfriars Theatre . A call-boy ushered us into the presence of the great actor and manager , who greeted us with a snappish `` Good morning ! '' A number of authors and actors were waiting their turn to see the prince of players , whose signet of approval or disapproval finished their expectations .