ten o'clock
This over , they entered the barn one by one as before , except Frank and Rody , who as they were determined to steal another bottle from the father 's stock , did not appear among the dancers until this was accomplished . The re-appearance of these rollicking and reckless young fellows in the dance , was hailed by all present ; for their outrageous mirth was in character with the genius of the place . The dance went on with spirit ; brag dancers were called upon to exhibit in hornpipes ; and for this purpose a table was bought in from Frank 's kitchen on which they performed in succession , each dancer applauded by his respective party as the best in the barn . In the meantime the night had advanced ; the hour might be about half-past ten o'clock ; all were in the zenith of enjoyment , when old Frank M'Kenna addressed them as follows : -- `` Neighbors , the dickens o ' one o ' me would like to break up the sport -- an ' , in throth , harmless and dacent sport it is ; but you all know that this is Christmas night , and that it 's our duty to attind the Midnight Mass. . Anybody that likes to hear it may go , for it 's near time to be home and prepare for it ; but the sorra one o ' me wants to take any of yez from your sport , if you prefer it ; all I say is , that I must lave yez ; so God be wid yez till we meet agin ! '' This short speech produced a general bustle in the barn ; many of the elderly neighbors left it , and several of the young persons also . It was Christmas Eve , and the Midnight Mass had from time immemorial so strong a hold upon their prejudices and affections , that the temptation must indeed have been great which would have prevented them from attending it .