midnight
As he took and kissed the hand extended to him , he felt the ring upon his finger , -- the ring intrusted to him by Alwyn , the king 's signet-ring , before which would fly open every gate . He uttered a joyous exclamation , loosened his long night-cloak , and praying Anne to envelop her form in its folds , drew the hood over her head ; he was about to lead her forth when he halted suddenly . `` Alack , '' said he , turning to Sibyll , `` even though we may escape the Tower , no boatman now can be found on the river . The way through the streets is dark and perilous , and beset with midnight ruffians . '' `` Verily , '' said Warner , `` the danger is past now . Let the noble demoiselle rest here till morning . The king dare not again -- '' `` Dare not ! ''