midnight
The barbaric rites seemed more picturesque , as well as more revolting , in that they took place by the flickering light of torches and bonfires in a rock strewn plain usually claimed by nature . When the dancers were more frenzied they held the squirming serpents in their mouths by the middle and allowed them to coil around their necks , dancing wildly the while . The whole affair was so nauseating and offensive that as soon as it was possible the visitors withdrew and retired to their `` camp . '' It was now almost midnight , but the path was lighted by the little lanterns they carried . As they approached the automobile Uncle John was disturbed not to see Wampus at his post . A light showed from the front of the car , but the chauffeur seemed to be missing . Coming nearer , however , they soon were greeted by a joyous barking from Mumbles and discovered Wampus squatting upon the ground , puffing at the small end of the cigar and seeming quite composed and tranquil .