noon
With the exchange of horses they kept up their speed , and as the hours went by , the riders saw mile after mile left behind . Whenever they stopped for horses at the ranchos lying on the road , they were welcomed by all , and to Apolinaria was shown the greatest deference , and everything was done to make her long ride as little fatiguing as possible , for her fame was known to all , as well as the reason for her present journey . Thus the day passed . Toward noon Apolinaria began to feel the effects of her rapid flight , but she had no thought of stopping , for she was determined to reach San Fernando that night . Slowly the day wore by , and the miles slipped behind them ; but the sun was set , and night was over them before they reached San Fernando . Two miles before arriving , they met a horseman who had been sent out on the road to meet them , in case , as the padres hoped , Apolinaria should come that night . At last they reached the mission , where Apolinaria was welcomed warmly .