midday
The Castle of Gutenfels , standing above us , is comfortable as any on the Rhine . Its owner , the Count Palatine , is fellow-Elector of yours , and a very close friend of my overlord of Mayence , and I am told they vote together whenever my overlord needs his assistance . '' `` That is true , '' commented Cologne . `` My overlord sent word that anything I needed for the accommodation of her ladyship , he recognizing that my warning had been short , I should requisition from the Count Palatine , so at midday I went up to call upon him , not saying anything , of course , about State prisoners , male or female . The moment he heard that you , my Lord , were visiting this neighborhood , he begged me to tender to you , and to all your companions or following , the hospitality of his Castle for so long as you might honor him with your presence . '' `` The Count Palatine is very gracious , and I shall be glad to accept shelter and refreshment . '' `` He would have been here to greet your Highness , but I was unable to inform him at what hour you would arrive , so I waited for you myself , and will be pleased to guide you to the gates of Gutenfels . ''