about two o'clock in the morning
Lighthearted and happy , we set out on this last lap of our ride . Our horses seemed to understand the emergency , as they put the miles behind them , thrilling us with their energy and vigor . Never for a moment in our flight did my sweetheart discover a single qualm over her decision , while in my case all scruples were buried in the hope of victory . Recrossing the Nueces and entering the stage road , we followed it down several miles , sighting the stage stand about two o'clock in the morning . I was saddle weary from the hunt , together with this fifty-mile ride , and rejoiced in reaching our temporary destination . Esther , however , seemed little the worse for the long ride . The welcome extended by the keeper of this relay station was gruff enough .