Both Uses of
observance
in
The Scarlet Letter
- It was the place whence proclamations were wont to be made, amidst an assemblage of the magistracy, with all the ceremonial that attended such public observances in those days.†
Chpt 3 *
- Nor would it have been impracticable, in the observance of majestic ceremonies, to combine mirthful recreation with solemnity, and give, as it were, a grotesque and brilliant embroidery to the great robe of state, which a nation, at such festivals, puts on.†
Chpt 21
Definition:
-
(observance) conformity with law or custom or practice
or:
taking part in a ritual -- such as celebrating a holiday