So
beautiful her face, so heavenly its expression, that Waring as he took
her hand, felt his eyes grow dim, and he vowed to himself to cherish
her with tenderest love forever.
'We are gathered together here in the sight of God,' began the
Preacher solemnly; old Fog, standing behind, shrank into the shadow,
and bowed his head upon his hands. But when the demand came, 'Who
giveth this woman to be married to this man?' he stepped forward, and
gave away his child without a tear, nay, with even a smile on his
brave old face.
'To love, cherish, and to obey,' repeated Silver in her clear sweet
voice.
And then Waring placed upon her finger the little ring he himself had
carved out of wood. 'It shall never be changed,' he said, 'but coated
over with heavy gold, just as it is.'
Old Orange, radiant with happiness, stood near, and served as a foil
for the bridal white.
It was over; but they were not to start until noon.
Fog put the Preacher almost forcibly into the boat and sailed away
with him, blindfolded and lamenting.
'The wedding feast,' he cried, 'and the punch! You are a fine host,
old gentleman.'
'Everything is here, packed in those baskets.
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