Mardi Volume 1 Chapter 70 - the Minstrel leads off with a Paddle-Song; and a Message is received from Abroad

In which a fresh sea breeze stirs the company to summon their minstrel, Yoomy, who leads a stirring paddle-song in harmony with the lively waves, as the canoes glide and roll upon the brine with united vigour. Suddenly, three mysterious hooded damsels arrive bearing floral emblems that speak in silent poetry, delivering an enigmatic warning that sets the assembly pondering the cryptic message and the foreboding figure of Queen Hautia.