noon
And up the slope of Cooper 's Hill , just opposite , are gathered the wondering rustics and curious townsfolk , who have run from Staines , and none are quite sure what the bustle is about , but each one has a different version of the great event that they have come to see ; and some say that much good to all the people will come from this day 's work ; but the old men shake their heads , for they have heard such tales before . And all the river down to Staines is dotted with small craft and boats and tiny coracles -- which last are growing out of favour now , and are used only by the poorer folk . Over the rapids , where in after years trim Bell Weir lock will stand , they have been forced or dragged by their sturdy rowers , and now are crowding up as near as they dare come to the great covered barges , which lie in readiness to bear King John to where the fateful Charter waits his signing . It is noon , and we and all the people have been waiting patient for many an hour , and the rumour has run round that slippery John has again escaped from the Barons ' grasp , and has stolen away from Duncroft Hall with his mercenaries at his heels , and will soon be doing other work than signing charters for his people 's liberty . Not so ! This time the grip upon him has been one of iron , and he has slid and wriggled in vain . Far down the road a little cloud of dust has risen , and draws nearer and grows larger , and the pattering of many hoofs grows louder , and in and out between the scattered groups of drawn-up men , there pushes on its way a brilliant cavalcade of gay-dressed lords and knights .