Midnight
She tried to cheat time by various devices . The idea struck her of dressing in a way which would make her exactly like the portrait . Then , knowing her husband 's restless temper , she had her room lighted up with unusual brightness , feeling sure that when he came in curiosity would bring him there at once . Midnight had struck when , at the call of the groom , the street gate was opened , and the artist 's carriage rumbled in over the stones of the silent courtyard . `` What is the meaning of this illumination ? '' asked Theodore in glad tones , as he came into her room . Augustine skilfully seized the auspicious moment ; she threw herself into her husband 's arms , and pointed to the portrait .