a quarter to the hour of nine
That is , unless he runs away , '' he added after reflection . Now they landed and were received by heralds blowing trumpets , and conducted through a great multitude of people with much pomp and ceremony to a pavilion which had been pitched for them , where they must arm and make ready . This then they did , helped or hindered by bowing squires whose language they could not understand . At length , when it lacked but a quarter to the hour of nine , David Day led Hugh 's horse into the wide entrance of the pavilion , where they examined its armour , bridle , selle and trappings . `` The beast sweats already , '' said Hugh , `` and so do I , who , to tell truth , dread this heat more than Cattrina 's sword . Pray that they get to the business quickly , or I shall melt like butter on a hot plate . '' Then his lance was given to him , a lance that was sharp and strong .