a quarter past twelve
Not until the clock struck twelve did they approach the stairs at the foot of which the boat was lying . There were two men in it . `` You are earlier than we expected , '' one said as they descended the steps . `` The captain said a quarter past twelve . '' `` Yes , we are a little early , '' Malcolm replied as he stepped into the boat ; `` we are ready earlier than we expected . '' A moment later Malcolm suddenly seized one of the sailors by the throat and dragged him down to the bottom of the boat , a handkerchief was stuffed into his mouth , and his hands and feet tied . The other was at the same time similarly secured .