the
hour of nine
The sound of footsteps echoing in the corridor without , caused her to turn toward the door , through which a man presently entered , who exclaimed in a petulant voice , as he ineffectually endeavored to fasten a sword belt : `` Come , my daughter , lay down thy pretty work for a moment , and aid thy father to gird this cursed baldric about him , for the ends be as coy as an old maid and her lover . '' She arose to comply with his request , and quickly fastened the desired buckle , then inquired , on noting his attire : `` Dost thou go abroad to-night ? '' `` Verily , I do , if Sir Thomas doth keep his appointment . 'T is past the hour of nine , and much I marvel that he hath not yet arrived . '' `` Then I will now bid thee good night , '' she answered , approaching and about to kiss him , when hearing one coming up the steps caused her to delay . `` There , by St. Paul , he is at last , '' as a knock sounded on the door . `` Run , my daughter , and open to Sir Thomas . ''