Matthew Poole and continuators on Acts 12:13

13 And as Peter knocked at the door of the gate, a damsel came to hearken, named Rhoda.

This was the outwardmost door to the Porch, or Court before the house.

Being in a great fear of a surprisal, they ordered one to observe, and give an answer unto any that should come to the house; which wa[illegible: 1 letter] the more heedfully done, because it was at an unseasonable time of the night; yet these holy men broke their rest, and exposed themselves to many fears and dangers, rather than not to assemble to serve God, when they could not serve him otherwise.

Marginal references: Or, To ask who was there.