Why did the guests at the ball repeat this phrase in The Master and Margarita?

The guests at the ball in The Master and Margarita repeated the phrase "The devil will take the hindmost" as a way of expressing their fear and uncertainty about the mysterious events that were unfolding around them. The phrase is a warning that those who are slow to act or those who are not careful will suffer the consequences of their inaction. The guests were already aware of the strange things happening at the ball, such as the appearance of a talking cat, and the phrase served to remind them to be vigilant and to be prepared for whatever might come next. The phrase also serves as a reminder of the power of the devil, and that he will take whatever he wants if one is not careful. This is a warning to the guests to take care of themselves and to be aware of the potential consequences of their actions.