It was arranged that the moment the train arrived and the
presence of Gerard was ascertained, the Trade in position
nearest to the station should commence the hymn of Labour,
which was instantly to be taken up by its neighbour, and so on
in succession, so that by an almost electrical agency the
whole population should almost simultaneously be assured of
his arrival.
At half past six o'clock the bell announced that the train was
in sight; a few minutes afterwards Dandy Mick hurried up to
the leader of the nearest Trade, spoke a few words, and
instantly the signal was given and the hymn commenced. It was
taken up as the steeples of a great city in the silence of the
night take up the new hour that has just arrived; one by one
the mighty voices rose till they all blended in one vast
waving sea of sound. Warner and some others welcomed Gerard
and Morley, and ushered them, totally unprepared for such a
reception, to an open carriage drawn by four white horses that
was awaiting them. Orders were given that there was to be no
cheering or any irregular clamour. Alone was heard the hymn.
As the carriage passed each Trade, they followed and formed in
procession behind it; thus all had the opportunity of
beholding their chosen chief, and he the proud consolation of
looking on the multitude who thus enthusiastically recognised
the sovereignty of his services.
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