"I take it as the richest gift
of heaven. There is time enough for us all. Two hours will take me
through the hills; and by noon to-morrow I will return with Washington's
pardon for your brother, and Henry will help to enliven our nuptials."
"Then meet me here, in ten minutes," said Frances, greatly relieved by
unburdening her mind, and filled with the hope of securing Henry's
safety, "and I will return and take those vows which will bind me to
you forever."
Dunwoodie paused only to press her once to his bosom, and flew to
communicate his wishes to the priest.
Miss Peyton received the avowal of her niece with infinite astonishment,
and a little displeasure. It was violating all the order and decorum of
a wedding to get it up so hastily, and with so little ceremony. But
Frances, with modest firmness, declared that her resolution was taken;
she had long possessed the consent of her friends, and their nuptials,
for months, had only waited her pleasure. She had now promised
Dunwoodie; and it was her wish to comply; more she dare not say without
committing herself, by entering into explanations that might endanger
Birch, or Harper, or both. Unused to contention, and really much
attached to her kinsman, the feeble objections of Miss Peyton gave way
to the firmness of her niece.
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