But who was the lady on Roseveldt’s left, holding him by the hand? Cornelia Inskip!
Another coincidence; still another was in store for him; equally strange and far more startling!
Following the crescent curvature, he scrutinised the couple on Count Roseveldt’s right. They were the other two standing up to be married.
It was with difficulty he could restrain an ejaculation, on recognising Julia Girdwood as the bride, and Richard Swinton the bridegroom!
With an effort he controlled himself. It was no business of his; and he only made the muttered remark:—“Poor girl! there’s something noble about her. What a pity she should throw herself away on such a scamp as Dick Swinton!”
Maynard knew only some of Dick Swinton’s antecedents. He had no suspicion that the ex-guardsman was at that moment in the act of committing bigamy!
It had not yet reached fulfilment. It was upon the verge of it. As Maynard stood in speechless contemplation, the clergyman came to that solemn question, proceeding from his lips in the form of a demand:—
“I require and charge of you in the... if either of you know any impediment, why ye may not be lawfully joined together in Matrimony, ye do now confess it.”
There was the usual interval of silence, but not so long as is usual. It was shortened by a response, a thing altogether unusual! This came not from bride or bridegroom, but a third party, who suddenly appeared upon the scene!
A woman, young and beautiful, well-dressed, but with a wild look in her eye, and anger in her every movement, shot out from behind one of the supporting columns, and hastily approached the altar! She was followed by two men, who appeared to act under her orders.