The women in the front pew left their seats and drew near enough to hear the low responses of the bridegroom and the bride.
The ceremony must have been relieved from all unnecessary forms, for it was very short, and very soon over.
“I pronounce you man and wife. Those whom God hath joined together, let no man put asunder.”
The concluding words of the sacred marriage rites, uttered in the sweet and solemn tones of the officiating priest, fell upon the ears of the unhappy girl like the knell of doom.
The benediction was then pronounced, and the young pair arose from their knees.
CHAPTER XVIII
BRIDE AND GROOM
Wedded fast were we.
E. B. Browning.
“Salute your wife,” said the priest.
The young bridegroom turned to his wife—his face all glorious with the noblest love that ever inspired the soul of a world-renowned poet or warrior—and took her hand and drew her to his heart and bowed his head to offer her the customary kiss that was to seal the ceremony just performed between them.