midnight
These young people came from small , comfortable homes , quite capacious enough for happiness and self-respect , but not large enough for a dance . Very well ; all that was needed was a simple request for the use of the field-house and they could have at their disposal a fine , airy hall , well-warmed and lighted , with an excellent floor , charming decorations , and a room where they might prepare their refreshments . All they had to pay for was the music . Proper chaperonage was required and the hall closed at midnight . Kate descanted on the beauties of the system till Ray yawned . `` Think how different it is at the dance-hall where we are going , '' she went on , not heeding his disinclination for the subject . `` They 'll keep it up till dawn and drink between every dance .