“I will tell you all about that after this little business is over, dear Alice! Come.”
“Immediately after?”
“Yes, instantly, and it will take but a moment.”
“Come, then, let us have it over quickly, that I may the sooner hear of Elsie. But, oh! just assure me of this—that you have forgiven her! I know by your smile that you have—but, oh! I long to hear you say so!”
“Can you doubt me, Alice? Come! let us have this affair over, and then you shall know all about it.”
And taking her hand he led her up the room.
The magistrate was seated behind a table; before him lay a copy of the Holy Scriptures, pen, ink, and paper, and certain documents, among which was the deed of assignment in question. By the side of the table stood Judge Jacky and the lawyer, as witnesses.
General Garnet led Alice up in front of it, and immediately before the magistrate.
Squire Fox took up the deed of assignment, and read it aloud. Then he administered the oath to Alice, and put the usual questions, as to whether she gave that deed of her own free will, without compulsion, or undue persuasion from her husband?
“Without being kissed or kicked out of it?” whispered Judge Jacky.