nine o’clock before
_ The concert was succeeded by a ball , unquestionably the first that had ever taken place in Gallia . The Russian sailors exhibited some of their national dances , which gained considerable applause , even although they followed upon the marvelous fandangos of the Spaniards . Ben Zoof , in his turn , danced a _ pas seul _ -LRB- often performed in the Elysee Montmartre -RRB- with an elegance and vigor that earned many compliments from Negrete . It was nine o'clock before the festivities came to an end , and by that time the company , heated by the high temperature of the hall , and by their own exertions , felt the want of a little fresh air . Accordingly the greater portion of the party , escorted by Ben Zoof , made their way into one of the adjacent galleries that led to the shore . Servadac , with the count and lieutenant , did not follow immediately ; but shortly afterwards they proceeded to join them , when on their way they were startled by loud cries from those in advance . Their first impression was that they were cries of distress , and they were greatly relieved to find that they were shouts of delight , which the dryness and purity of the atmosphere caused to re-echo like a volley of musketry .