George. Prosperity attend you."

Fatigued from the long journey, so much of it accomplished by
tiresome, lumbering stage-coaches, these two travelling companions
gladly alighted at the Melrose Tavern, and eagerly sought the
refreshments its simple hospitality afforded.






CHAPTER XXIX.





IN the quiet little parlor of Widow Heartwell, in the early May
morning, the tender breeze stole in and out of the window,
fluttering the muslin curtain and filling the apartment with
delicious perfume. In the same parlor a few chosen friends were
assembled, to witness the solemn ceremony that was to deprive them
of the pride and favorite of the village. As the dial upon the
delicate face of the little bronze clock on the mantel marked the
hour of eight, the flutter of robes and the rustling of footsteps
ushered in the expectant pair, and at once all the guests arose.

Pale and trembling, Mrs. Heartwell took her place beside her
daughter, as she stood before the venerable minister. For years the