But this is an error which
grows out of an ignorance of the organic arrangement of the human frame.
In obedience to this opinion, the fourth finger of the left hand is
thought to contain a virtue that belongs to no other branch of that
digitated member; and it is ordinarily encircled, during the
solemnization of wedlock, with a cincture or ring, as if to chain that
affection to the marriage state, which is best secured by the graces of
the female character." While speaking, the operator laid his hand
expressively on his heart, and he bowed nearly to the floor when he had
concluded.
"I know not, sir, that I rightly understand your meaning," said Miss
Peyton, whose want of comprehension was sufficiently excusable.
"A ring, madam--a ring is wanting for the ceremony."
The instant that the surgeon spoke explicitly, the awkwardness of the
situation was understood. She glanced her eyes at her nieces, and in the
younger she read a secret exultation that somewhat displeased her; but
the countenance of Sarah was suffused with a shame that the considerate
aunt well understood. Not for the world would she violate any of the
observances of female etiquette. It suggested itself to all the females,
at the same moment, that the wedding ring of the late mother and sister
was reposing peacefully amid the rest of her jewelry in a secret
receptacle, that had been provided at an early day, to secure the
valuables against the predatory inroads of the marauders who roamed
through the county.
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