As a former comrade of the bridegroom, and as friend of the family, Pranken proposed the toast to the bridal pair; he spoke well, and in a humorous tone, as was best, and the company were well pleased.
The discharge of a cannon gave notice that the fireworks were beginning, and the guests betook themselves to the veranda and the garden.
CHAPTER X.
FIREWORKS AND THEN DARKNESS.
Bella suddenly stood by Eric's side, without his noticing her approach.
"You are unusually grave to-day," she said in a low voice.
"I am not used to the confusion of such a fête."
"I always feel as if you would have something to say to me," she murmured lower.
Eric was silent, and Bella continued:—
"Does it seem to you as it does to me, when you see your nearest friend in a great assembly, as if you met in a strange land, or as if struggling in a river, in which you are drowning?"