CHAPTER TWENTY-FOURTH.
"There's many a slip
Twixt the cup and the lip."
The Travillas were all invited to Gertrude's wedding; but as it was to be a very grand affair, the invitation was declined because of their recent bereavement.
Mr. Ross had not seen his intended son-in-law, nor did he know how mercenary were Gertrude's motives. He took it for granted that she would not, of her own free will, consent to marry a man who was not at least agreeable to her, though he certainly thought it odd that she should fancy one over forty years older than herself.
He made some inquiries relative to the man's character and circumstances, and learning that he was really very wealthy, and bore a respectable reputation, as the world goes, gave his consent to the match.
The preparations went on; dresses and jewels were ordered from Paris, invitations issued to several hundred guests, and the reception rooms of their city residence refurnished for the occasion; money was poured out without stint to provide the wedding feasts and flowers, rich and rare, for the adornment of the house, and the persons of the girls.
Gertrude did not seem unhappy, but was in a constant state of excitement, and would not allow herself a moment to think.
Ten days before that appointed for the ceremony, the bridegroom arrived in the city, and called upon the family.
Mr. Ross did not like his countenance, and wondered more than ever at his daughter's choice.