"He was a dear boy," sighed Fabens.
"Too dear, too dear to die as he did. O, Lord, continue thy comfort!" sobbed Mrs. Fabens.
The conversation was then interrupted, for it was announced that the couple were ready to appear for the ceremony as soon as the guests could be called into the north room. The guests gathered in, and took their seats, more than filling the room. Then entered the bridegroom, leading as bright a blooming beauty of a bride, as your dainty eyes would choose to see; and they seated themselves where nearly all the company had the blessing of a view of their joyful looks. Uncle Walter declared, that the sight was feast enough for him, and he should have no appetite after that for supper. Colwell thought it was lighter and more summer-like in the room than before.
Then, when every breath and pulse were so hushed, that nothing but silence itself filled all ears,—Father Lovelight begged leave to perform a ceremony before the marriage one. It would not be a great interruption, and he hoped it might heighten, and not dampen their joys. And leading in the stranger, he said, "Mr. and Mrs. Fabens, the gentleman I hold by the hand, revealed to me a mystery last night, which I am not unhappy now to disclose. Your prayers are answered. Your joy is complete. Receive your lost son. Clinton returns in joy to your arms!"
"Has heaven been opened so soon?" cried Fabens, standing like a statue.
"It cannot be Clinton, but, only my dream of him!" cried Mrs. Fabens, clasping her hands, and looking amazed.
"Believe me, madam, it is your own dear son," said Father Lovelight.
"Father!" cried the stranger.
"Clinton!" cried Fabens, rushing to embrace him.
"My child! my dear, dear child!" cried Mrs. Fabens, falling in his arms.