noon
She might have been more explicit if she had not decided to reserve the surprise of Daphne 's royal descent until the final scene at Clairdelune -- which would be far more effective , as well as safer . `` And do n't worry yourself about that foolish old Baron , '' she concluded . `` We shall be gone before _ he _ can give any trouble . Now be off with you -- I sha n't want you till noon , and a few more hours ' gardening wo n't hurt you ! '' There was no need to hurry , so she did not leave her tower till it was nearly half an hour to mid-day , when she went slowly and by unfrequented paths through the gardens and thence to the Pavilion . Daphne , who had been anxiously expecting her , saw her from the Pavilion and came to meet her , feeling and looking rather guilty . `` Have you heard ? ''