A 'way back when, it used to be a tradition following the Mystic
festival, that what performers and organizers were left would
gather for dinner at a restaurant called "Noah's" just up
the road. Small place. Exquisite seafood. In Stonington.

After all had supped their fill, permission would be asked if
we could sing, the other diners being asked if they objected.

They never did.

It must have been a couple of decades ago, but I still recall
Dick Swain starting up with 'Row On..' and all joining in in
the inimitable harmony that was unique to a gathering of Mystic
Festival performers; four-square and perfect.

A woman was dining alone at the front of the shop; she stopped
her supper.

Tears flowed down her cheeks...we clearly had not just entertained,
we had tugged at some hidden heart-string. Was it a lost love? Her
life? A general whats-it's?

"Ply ply the oars, and pull away. There's dawn beyond the night."

Now that is why we sing this music.