In Scenes like these, or what these Scenes portend, }
How could I cheer my Partner, how defend, }
Or be th’ Adviser, Comforter or friend? }
Should I not then—but let me not appear
A Vision’s Victim, Misery’s Volunteer— 410
But should I not—at least, till I attain
Maturer years—in maiden State remain?”
“Appeal to Cecil,” said the Matron; “say,
‘Thou hadst my promise for th’ important Day;
The Mother’s Wishes, and the full Consent