midnight
Ulrich joined in her gayety , and taking the lute from his neck , offered it to the cavalier , with a defiant gesture , exclaiming : `` It 's at your disposal , Mask ; we have changed parts . But please hold it firmer than you held your lady . '' High play went on in the gaming hall ; Claudia was lucky with the artist 's gold . At midnight the banker laid down the cards . It was Ash-Wednesday , the hall must be cleared ; the quiet Lenten season had begun . The players withdrew into the adjoining rooms , among them the much-envied couple . Claudia threw herself upon a couch ; Ulrich left her to procure a gondola .