For the display of bunting on the war ship betokened victory.
The city gave itself up to a joyousness almost unprecedented.
There was no time for much preparation, for the Constitution had been sighted only just outside the harbor, but the city did what it could.
A signal was fired for the war ship to anchor until a boat could put off for the news.
At first Captain Hull was inclined to disregard it.
When war had been declared against England, the flags were all hoisted in the city, but at half mast; funeral dirges were played through the streets, and a meeting was held in Faneuil Hall to express mourning and humiliation.
Hull remembered this, and chafed at the thought that Boston was the nearest port.
But he remembered his country, and if Boston wanted to rejoice with the victors, it might be of advantage nationally.
So he ordered the salute to be answered, and he anchored until the boat could reach him.