midnight
Thus was this sacred building once more invaded -- once again a scene of noise , riot , and confusion -- its vaulted roofs instead of echoing the voice of prayer , or the choral hymn , resounded with loud laughter , imprecations , and licentious discourse . This disorder , however , was kept in some bounds by a strong body of the royal guard , who soon afterwards arrived , and stationing themselves in parties of three or four at each of the massive columns flanking the aisles , maintained some show of decorum . Besides these , there were others of the royal attendants , bearing torches , who walked from place to place , and compelled all loiterers in dark corners to proceed to the nave . A little before midnight , the great doors were again thrown open , and a large troop of richly-attired personages , all wearing masks , were admitted . For a short time they paced to and fro between its shafted pillars gazing at the spectators grouped around , and evidently , from their jests and laughter , not a little entertained by the scene . As the clock struck twelve , however , all sounds were hushed , and the courtly party stationed themselves on the steps leading to the choir . At the same moment , also , the torches were extinguished , and the whole of the building buried in profound darkness .