eight o'clock
It would do you no good to inculpate me , for it would doom us both to instant death as spies ; while a supposed burglar would be simply turned over to the law and punished by a term of imprisonment . I give you these instructions although I hope there will be no necessity for them . This hiding-place has been several times used , and the deepest secrets of the aristocracy revealed to our Brotherhood , without detection ; and if you are prudent and careful there will be little to fear . The council will meet at eight o'clock ; at half past seven it will be my duty to see that the rooms are in order , and to make sure that there are no spies or intruders on the premises , and to so report in person to the Prince , and deliver him the key of the outer door . I shall cover your dress with the garments of one of the household servants , and take you with me to help make that last examination ; and , watching an opportunity , you will slip into the hiding-place ; having first taken off the disguise I have lent you , which we will hide among the plants . You must be armed and prepared for every emergency . I will meet you in the garden at half past six ; before we part I will furnish you with a key to an outer gate , by which you can enter .