Here I was in the midst of my devoted adherents.

Every house was hung with red and bedecked with flags and mottoes.

The streets were lined with raised seats on each side, and I passed along, bowing this way and that, under a shower of cheers, blessings, and waving handkerchiefs.

The balconies were full of gaily dressed ladies, who clapped their hands and curtsied and threw their brightest glances at me.

A torrent of red roses fell on me; one bloom lodged in my horse's mane, and I took it and stuck it in my coat.