midnight
As the hour grew later , and the salons filled more and more , the windows were opened along the terrace to give air , and I could hear the continued murmur of hundreds of voices conversing , while at times the sound of laughter rose above the rest . What a rush of thoughts came on me as I sat ! how did I picture to myself the dark intrigues , the subtle plots of wily diplomatists , the bold and daring aspirations of the brave soldiers , the high hopes and the ambitious yearnings that were all commingled there , grouped around him whose dreams were of universal empire ! While I mused , the night glided on , and the solemn sound of the bell of Notre Dame proclaimed midnight . I now could mark that the salons were thinning , and the unceasing din of carriages in the Place announced the departure of the guests . In little more than half an hour the great gallery was empty , and but a few groups remained in the apartments adjoining . Even they soon departed ; and then I could see the servants passing from room to room extinguishing the lights , and soon the great facade of the palace wac wrapped in darkness .