about two o'clock
The same number of lights might therefore be seen streaming in different ways over the parish ; the married men holding the torches , and leading their wives ; bachelors escorting their sweethearts , and not unfrequently extinguishing their flambeaux , that the dependence of the females upon their care and protection might more lovingly call forth their gallantry . When Mike Reillaghan considered with due attention the hint which Darby More had given him , touching the necessity of collecting his friends as an escort for Peggy Gartland , he had strong reasons to admit its justness and propriety . After Mass he spoke to about two dozen young fellows who joined him , and under their protection Peggy now returned safely to her father 's house . Frank M'Kenna and his wife reached home about two o'clock ; the dance was comparatively thin , though still kept up with considerable spirit . Having solemnized himself by the grace of so sacred a rite , Frank thought proper to close the amusement , and recommend those whom he found in the barn to return to their respective dwellings . `` You have had a merry night , childher , '' said he ; `` but too much o ' one thing 's good for nothin ' ; so do n't make a toil of a pleasure , but go all home dacently an ' soberly , in the name o ' God . '' This advice was accordingly followed .