midnight
`` Rave not , I say . '' But she only raved the more . And now the good stranger departed ; saying , he must hie to a wedding , waiting his presence in an arbor adjoining . Understanding that the removal of the body would not take place till midnight , we thought to behold the mode of marrying in Mondoldo . Drawing near the place , we were greeted by merry voices , and much singing , which greatly increased when the good stranger was perceived . Gayly arrayed in fine robes , with plumes on their heads , the bride and groom stood in the middle of a joyous throng , in readiness for the nuptial bond to be tied . Standing before them , the stranger was given a cord , so bedecked with flowers , as to disguise its stout fibers ; and taking : the bride 's hands , he bound them together to a ritual chant ; about her neck , in festoons , disposing the flowery ends of the cord .