midnight
After some consideration the duke assented , and , promising to return on the following day and report what had occurred he took his leave , and went in search of the archer in question . Finding he had taken up his quarters at the Garter , he sent for him and proposed the matter . Shoreditch heard the duke 's relation with astonishment , but expressed the greatest willingness to accompany him , pledging himself , as Richmond demanded , to profound secrecy on the subject . At the appointed hour -- namely , midnight -- the duke quitted the castle , and found Shoreditch waiting for him near the upper gate . The latter was armed with a stout staff , and a bow and arrows . `` If we gain sight of the mysterious horseman to-night , '' he said , `` a cloth-yard shaft shall try whether he is of mortal mould or not . If he be not a demon , I will warrant he rides no more . ''