But the crowning event of the evening was a still greater surprise.
Mrs. Spriggins had been summoned to the kitchen for a few moments, and on her return to the best room saw a sight that almost took away her breath.
The tables, chairs, and every inch of available space were crowded with such, a variety of useful and pretty articles that one might imagine himself in Blanchard's.
Poor Moses was for the moment speechless, first looking at one guest and then at another.
Mr. Lawson now came forward, and in a few well-chosen remarks addressed the host and hostess, and on behalf of the company tendered congratulations on the third anniversary of their marriage.
Wreathed in smiles the host arose to reply.
"Ladies and gentlemen," said the latter giving his cravat a very artistic touch, "if Mr. Lawson wa'nt a lawyer I'd a-tried to say somethin', but I can't get a word out nohow, only Melindy and me will never forgit your kindness—and the skeare."
The applause that followed was long and loud, and as the good host made a hasty exit from the room, Marguerite did not fail to see the big tear that rolled down the sunburnt cheeks.
"And you noticed it too, my darling," whispered Phillip to his bethrothed, as he gained her side.
"Yes Phillip, I was just thinking that those tears were more precious than pearls—the essence of real gratitude."