About three o'clock in the morning
The music and the dancing never ceased . When the black musicians grew tired their places were taken by others as black and as zealous , and on they went in a ceaseless alternation . Robert learned that the guests would dance all night and far into the next day , and that frequently at the great houses a ball continued two days and two nights . About three o'clock in the morning , after a long dance that left him somewhat weary , he went upon one of the wide piazzas to rest and take the fresh air . There , his attention was specially attracted by two young men who were waging a controversy with energy , but without acrimony . `` I tell you , James , '' said one , who was noticeable for his great shock of fair hair and his blazing red face , `` that at two miles Blenheim is unbeatable . '' `` Unbeatable he may be , Walter , '' said the other , `` but there is no horse so good that there is n't a better .