midnight
Ah rather , how shall I express my thanks ? '' `` I did not read that face misjudgingly , '' thought the queen , as she resumed . `` Be it so ; we will not lose another night . Withdraw yonder , through the inner tent ; the litter shall be straight prepared for thee ; and ere midnight thou shalt sleep in safety under the roof of one of the bravest knights and noblest ladies that our realm can boast . Thou shalt bear with thee a letter that shall commend thee specially to the care of thy hostess -- thou wilt find her of a kindly and fostering nature . And , oh , maiden ! '' added the queen , with benevolent warmth , `` steel not thy heart against her -- listen with ductile senses to her gentle ministry ; and may God and His Son prosper that pious lady 's counsel , so that it may win a new strayling to the Immortal Fold ! ''