midday
It was clear that he could not be closely surrounded by a guard , for in that case Blue Cap would not venture near him . He must , therefore , be allowed a considerable amount of liberty ; and , however many men might be on watch a short distance off , he ought to be able by a sudden rush to make his way through them . There would at that hour be numbers of people in the street , and this would add to his chance of evading his pursuers . He ate heartily of a meal that was brought him at midday , and when just at sunset the warder entered the cell and told him to follow him , he felt equal to any exertion . When he came down into the courtyard , a dozen men were gathered there , together with Von Aert and his clerk . `` Now , '' the councillor said sternly , `` you see these men . They will be round you on all sides , and I warn you that if you attempt to escape or to give any warning sign to this Blue Cap , or to try any tricks with us of any sort , you shall be put to death with such tortures as you never dreamt of .