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The bells rang forth rejoicingly, the paths Were filled with people; even the lone street Where the poor widow dwelt, was roused, and sleep Was thought upon no more that night. Next day— A bright and sunny day it was—high flags Waved from each steeple, and green boughs were hung In the gay market-place; music was heard, Bands that struck up in triumph; and the sea Was covered with proud vessels; and the boats Went to and fro the shore, and waving hands Beckoned from crowded decks to the glad strand Where the wife waited for her husband,—maids Threw the bright curls back from their glistening eyes And looked their best,—and as the splashing oar Brought dear ones to the land, how every voice Grew musical with happiness! And there