nine o'clock
`` Yes , to all of your questions , count , '' I answered . '' ` Yes ' does n't answer the first question , '' he returned . `` It is n't to be answered , '' I replied curtly , and he returned with an apologetic `` Pardon ! '' Just before nine o'clock we took Frances aboard at Whitehall Garden Stairs and drifted slowly down to the king 's privy stairs , from which the narrow flight of steps rose to the king 's closet in the story above . When we drew up at the privy stairs , Frances stepped out of the boat to the landing and whispered : -- `` I shall arrange in some way to return , just as soon as the king signs the treaty , but if you hear me scream , come to my rescue . I am prepared to defend myself , and shall give the signal only when I must . '' After climbing the narrow steps , she entered the king 's closet and found him alone .