midnight
It seemed as if fire had poured into Georg 's soul and his spirit had gained wings . The thick waving locks curled in dishevelled masses around his handsome head , as leaning far back in his chair with unfastened collar , he mingled clever sallies and brilliant similes with the quiet conversation of the others . Wilhelm listened to his words sometimes with admiration , sometimes with anxiety . It was long past midnight , when the musician left the tavern with his friend . Colonel Mulder looked after him and exclaimed to those left behind : `` The fellow is possessed with a devil . '' The next morning the madrigal was practised at the burgomaster 's house , while its master was presiding over a meeting at the town-hall . Georg stood between Henrica and Maria .