“I will vacate the premises for you, gentlemen,” said Alice, drawing her arm through Stanley’s, and leaving the cave. After which, at a slow pace, they proceeded together toward the village.

——

CHAPTER XIII.

Bring flowers, fresh flowers, for the bride to wear!

They were born to blush in her shining hair:

She is leaving the home of her childhood’s mirth,

She hath bid farewell to her father’s hearth;

Her place is now by another’s side;

Bring flowers for the locks of the fair young bride!

Mrs. Hemans.