about ten o'clock
When he communicated the whisper , a nod of assent was given by his confidants , after which it might be remarked that they moved round to the door with a caution that betrayed a fear of observation , and quietly slunk out of the barn one by one , though Frank himself did not immediately follow them . In about a quarter of an hour afterwards , Rody came in , gave him a signal and sat down . Frank then followed his companions , and after a few minutes Rody also disappeared . This was about ten o'clock , and the dance was proceeding with great gayety and animation . Frank 's dread of openly offending his parents prevented him from assembling his associates in the dwelling-house ; the only convenient place of rendezvous , therefore , of which they could avail themselves , was the stable . Here they met , and Frank , after uncorking a bottle of poteen , addressed them to the following effect : `` Boys , there 's great excuse for me , in regard of my fight wid Mike Reillaghan ; that you 'll all allow . Come , boys , your healths !