Chapter XVI.
The Imprudence of Prudence.
"I never heard tell of such a Thing in my Life!" cried I, breathlessly.
"Ah, I knew you'd say so," said Prudence, lapsing into Tears. "It was so very silly."
"Silly? Wicked! Such a Mockery! You don't call it a real Marriage, I hope!"
"Oh dear, no. But if you were in my Place, you wouldn't consider yourself at Liberty to marry another?"
"I can't fancy myself in your Place, Prudence! I would not have done such a Thing for the World! Certainly, I could not consider myself free! Nor him secure! Fleet Marriages, I know, are binding in Law; but there's no Religion in them. Have you got a Certificate?"