midnight
Presently she perceived upon the light surface of the sea a small boat . The sound of the oars ceased , and a solemn strain of harmony -LRB- such as fancy wafts from the abodes of the blessed -RRB- stole upon the silence of night . A chorus of voices now swelled upon the air , and died away at a distance . In the strain Julia recollected the midnight hymn to the virgin , and holy enthusiasm filled her heart . The chorus was repeated , accompanied by a solemn striking of oars . A sigh of exstacy stole from her bosom . Silence returned .