A few minutes later and Mrs. Chapman, arrayed in all the majesty
of her best wardrobe entered, accompanied by her meek little husband,
and took their places on the opposite side, presenting such a contrast
of characters. The picture only wanted the central figures now.
A few minutes more, and there was a sudden, anxious movement on the part
of those inside. All eyes were turned towards the door. The bridal party
had arrived. Old Jonas was ringing his bell. The children at the door
were tossing flowers at their feet; and their voices were heard singing
a sweet and touching song. Then the bridal party advanced up the aisle,
the bride dressed in simple white, and with flowers in her golden hair,
and looking so sweetly. And as they took their place before the altar,
there was something so full of love and gentleness, of truth and purity,
in that sweet face as Mattie looked up and calmly surveyed the scene,
that it seemed as if earth had nothing to compare with it.
And as the simple, but impressive ceremony proceeded, and the young
lovers once more pledged their love, and made that solemn vow never to
separate until death comes, and knelt in prayer to sanctify it; and as
the Dominie blessed them, and pronounced a benediction, and as the soft
rays of the setting sun played over and lighted up that beautiful face,
it seemed as if some gentle spirit, sent from on high, was hovering over
the scene and whispering Amen.
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