Midnight
It was all lit up by the fire of the torches and flares from the kitchens , which was also the source of a squeaking spit , clattering saucepans , the chink of crystal and silverware shaken about during the laying of the tables , and a warm steam smelling deliciously of roast meat and strong herbs in fine sauces . This started the farmers , chaplain , bailiff , and everybody else commenting : -- What a splendid Christmas Eve dinner there is in store for us ! The bell rings twice ! ... Midnight mass is beginning . The candles are lit and the tapestries draped from top to bottom of the interleaved arches and the oak panelling in the chateau 's chapel . It 's a veritable cathedral in miniature . And what a congregation there is !