The sun at noon
For smile she did , as sweetly , as tenderly , as a breaking cloud . The sun of her smile was like a clean breath in the stivy den ; and , behold , she took Robaccia by the hand and lifted her up , she encircled her with a mothering arm , and drew her close to her own breast . Her lips touched the bad girl 's cheek , lingered for a moment there , wistfully withdrew ; and Madonna of the Peach-Tree , none staying her now , went out into the dead street , and was seen no more of that company . The sun at noon looked down upon Verona at peace , upon her citizens at their prayers . Never was such a scene in the stormy little city before . All the bells of all the churches pealed all day -- with no lack of arms to pull them . Men and women ran to and fro kissing whom they met , with a `` Save you , brother ! ''