noon
The criminal classes became so daring and numerous that the streets were insecure even in the day-time , `` It is shocking to think what a shambles this country is grown ! '' wrote Walpole . `` Seventeen were executed this morning , after having murdered the turnkey on Friday night , and almost forced open Newgate . One is forced to travel even at noon , as if one were going to battle . '' -LSB- 141 -RSB- It was the custom to go out at night accompanied by armed servants . Addison gave an amusing description of the precautions observed when Sir Roger de Coverley was taken to the theatre . `` The Captain , who did not fail to meet me there at the appointed Hour , bid Sir Roger fear nothing , for that he had put on the same Sword which he made use of at the Battle of _ Steenkirk _ .