holding her to his heart, in profound religious joy and gratitude,
he bowed his head and said:

"Oh, Father in Heaven! how I thank thee for this dear girl! Oh, make
me every day more worthy of her love, and of thy many blessings!"

And soon after this Ishmael, happier than he ever thought it
possible to be in this world, led forth from the arbor his betrothed
bride.

He led her at once to the house and to the presence of her parents,
whom he found in their private sitting room.

Standing before them and holding her hand, he said:

"She has promised to be my wife, and we are here for your blessing."

"You have it, my children! You have it with all my heart! May the
Lord in heaven bless with his choicest blessings Ishmael and
Beatrice!" said Mr. Middleton earnestly.

"Amen," said Mrs. Middleton.

Later in the evening Judge Merlin was informed of the engagement.
And after congratulating the betrothed pair he turned to Mr. and
Mrs. Middleton and said:

"Heaven knows how I envy you your son-in-law."

The gratified parents smiled, for they were proud of Ishmael, and