the hour
of twelve
Thus again , more truly than before by jealous tears , Ninon proved that she had become a woman . '' At this sentence he was interrupted by a perfect storm of applause , in which Harcourt led off again and again . But Hemstead drew his inspiration from Lottie 's face , and noted with a thrill of joy that tears stood in her eyes . This was a richer tribute than he received from all the others , and with deeper and more effective tones he continued : `` But just then the great bell began to toll out the hour of twelve , and the demon , from his sable throne , made a restraining gesture . '' ` Naught , ' he said , ` must now interfere with our high magic and solemn sorcery . At the last stroke of the bell take their hearts out of their living bodies . ' `` Ninon sank on the floor , murmuring like a dying zephyr among the chords of an AEolian harp , ` Farewell , mother dear .