eight o'clock
The Grand Duke thanked the lads for their important capture , and then , with Alexis , they made their way to the house where Marquis was waiting for them . They were given connecting rooms and were soon in bed . Tired out they slept heavily . Therefore , while they had expected to arise before eight o'clock , nine found them still sleeping . They were awakened at last , however , by the sounds of a commotion in the adjoining room . The two lads sat up in bed and listened intently . Heavy footsteps tramped toward their door and it was thrown open with a quick jerk .