In some stories a certain thing (A) stands for something else (B). We then say that A is a 'symbol' for B. Look at the paragraph that begins with the sentence, 'Do you remember, madam, you also explained the meaning of the story?'

explanation:

the silver bells of the sleds are merry and keep time in the winter nights while the sky twinkles happily. the golden bells of weddings are delightful in their peaceful happiness, foretelling a rapturous future. meanwhile, the brazen alarm bells scream frightfully in the night, with a discordant and desperate sound. in their clamor, these bells convey terror, horror, and anger. finally, the iron bells are solemn and melancholy, while those in the church steeple are like ghouls who feel happiness. the king of the ghouls, who rings the bells, cheerfully keeps time with the moaning and groaning bells.

greet them:

buenas noches.

that is considered night time which is when "good night" is used.

what excerpt? i would generally think a.