about three o'clock
As he laid his hand upon the lad 's shoulder and held him off at arm 's - length , he added , `` And I pledge thee my word , Myles , that thou art as lusty and handsome a lad as ever mine eyes beheld . '' `` Thou art very kind to me , sir , '' said Myles , in answer . Lord George laughed ; and then giving him a shake , let go his shoulder . It was about three o'clock when little Edmond de Montefort , Lord Mackworth 's favorite page , came with word that the King was then walking in the Earl 's pleasance . `` Come , Myles , '' said Lord George , and then Myles arose from the seat where he had been sitting , his heart palpitating and throbbing tumultuously . At the wicket-gate of the pleasance two gentlemen-at-arms stood guard in half-armor ; they saluted Lord George , and permitted him to pass with his protege . As he laid his hand upon the latch of the wicket he paused for a moment and turned .