an hour after midnight
Master Clough was not unmindful of the threatened attack on the house , and secured several porters and other trusty men for its protection . A similar body was also prepared to conduct the litters and Sir Thomas down to the water-side . The men had been summoned up one by one , and did not put on their harness till they were inside the house : thus no one was aware of the preparations we were making . The tide would not serve till an hour after midnight : we therefore waited till nearly twelve o'clock before we set out . The horses were brought round for Sir Thomas , with four stout men-at-arms , who had been engaged as his guards . A'Dale and I went on foot ; he taking care of Richard , while I walked by the side of Aveline 's litter . With our swords drawn , and our pistols in our belts , ready for instant use , we proceeded along the streets .