As the minister read this dread adjuration, the face of the bridegroom was observed to flush and pale, and his form to tremble and shake as with a sudden ague fit.
But though the minister made the customary pause, no one spoke.
And the ceremony proceeded.
“‘Alexander, wilt thou have this woman to be thy wedded wife?’” et cetera.
And the bridegroom answered in a firm and almost defiant voice:
“‘I will.’”
The clergyman continued:
“‘Anna, wilt thou have this man to be thy wedded husband?’” and so forth.
And the bride, Anna Drusilla, faltered in whispering tones:
“‘I will.’”