They had each for those
two who had lain dead together in the streets of New York the strongest
and tenderest love,--and though it was not a tie about which they could
talk, it bound them together as with chains of steel.
Russell was with Ercildoune at the time of the wedding, and entered into
it heartily, as they all did. The result was, as has been written, the
gayest and merriest of times. Sallies dress, which Robert had given her,
was a sight to behold; and the pretty jewels, which were a part of his
gift, and the long veil, made her look, as Jim declared, "so handsome he
didn't know her,"--though that must have been one of Jim's stories, or
else he was in the habit of making love to strange ladies with
extraordinary ease and effrontery.
The breakfast was another sight to behold. As Mary the cook said to Jane
the housemaid, "If they'd been born kings and queens, Mrs. Lee couldn't
have laid herself out more; it's grand, so it is,--just you go and see;"
which Jane proceeded to do, and forthwith thereafter corroborated Mary's
enthusiastic statement.
There were plenty of presents, too: and when it was all over, and they
were in the carriage, to be sent to the station, Mr. Ercildoune,
holding Sallie's hand in farewell, left there a bit of paper, "which is
for you," he said. "God protect, and keep you happy, my child!" Then
they were gone, with many kind adieus and good wishes called and sent
after them.
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