Emma had left the room for a few minutes to give some orders.
Alden Lytton had just embraced his sister, and was holding the hand of his brother-in-law, wishing him all manner of happiness and prosperity, when the door opened and Jerome entered, saying:
"There's a gemman out here wants to see Mr. Lytton most partic'lar."
"Show him in," said Alden Lytton, smiling, and expecting to see some guest who had come too late for the wedding.
Chapter XLV.
A TERRIBLE SUMMONS.
You have displaced the mirth, broke the good meeting
With most admired disorder.
—Shakespeare.
The servant left the room, and presently returned and ushered in a tall, stout, gray-haired man, whom all present recognized as Mr. John Bowlen, the deputy sheriff of the county.