midnight
Soon the fires in the servants ' room became covered with ashes and were quenched ; finally everything became absolutely quiet in the forest house , only from time to time the dogs were heard howling at the wolves in the direction of the wilderness . But in the princess ' , Father Wyszoniek 's and Zbyszko 's rooms , the windows were shining , throwing red lights on the snow which covered the court-yard . They were waiting in silence , listening to the throbbing of their own hearts -- uneasy and affected by the solemnity of the moment which was coming . In fact , after midnight , the princess took Danusia by the hand and conducted her to Zbyszko 's room , where Father Wyszoniek was waiting for them . In the room there was a great blaze in the fireplace , and by its abundant but unsteady light , Zbyszko perceived Danusia ; she looked a little pale on account of sleepless nights ; she was dressed in a long , stiff , white dress , with a wreath of immortelles on her brow . On account of emotion , she closed her eyes ; her little hands were hanging against the dress , and thus she appeared like some painting on a church window ; there was something spiritual about her ; Zbyszko was surprised when he saw her , and thought that he was going to marry not an earthly , but a heavenly being . He still thought this when she kneeled with crossed hands to receive the communion , and having bent her head , closed her eyes entirely .