the emotions which are struggling within the bosom of the fair
one as she slowly utters those vows which, in accordance with her former
resolve, she will earnestly strive to perform. Conscience awakens in her
a deep shudder by setting forth painful convictions of promises given
where her heart beats no response. But lady Rosamond felt relief from
the thought of her efforts to do what she could to atone for this
knowledge. Her husband would be happy in her presence if not her love.
Those were the thoughts that occupied the lovely bride as she accepted
the congratulations of the crowd who gathered around her. A pleasing
smile greeted every one of the guests; even Lady Bereford was satisfied
with the grateful acknowledgement. The bridegroom was a happy man. He
adored his lovely bride. He looked upon her as the perfect embodiment of
love and truth. Such were the sentiments that stimulated Gerald Bereford
as his wife was received into society with all the eclat attendant upon
rank, wealth and beauty. Her appearance on several occasions was hailed
with universal delight. Her unassuming manner, childlike disposition and
elegant grace made friends at every footstep. Jealousy found no favor in
the wake of Lady Rosamond. Her presence was sufficient warning to the
green-eyed monster to make hasty retreat.

Lord Bereford took a fond interest in his newly found daughter. He had
always loved Lady Rosamond as his own child. She reminded him of the
lovely sister who shared in his youthful joys. Maria Bereford was the
favorite sister of his early days; her daughter was a tender link in the
chain of memory. Lady Rosamond fully returned the affection borne her by
Lord Bereford. She found a strange relief when sitting by his side
listening to the stories which brought before her vivid conceptions of
her childhood and its happy past never to return--the days when her
heart was free to roam in its wayward and fanciful nights full of ardour
and the bouyant aspirations of unfettered youth.

Gerald Bereford proved indeed a tender and loving husband. His heart was
always ready to upbraid him if he were not ready to meet the slightest
wish of his young wife. Every kindness that could be bestowed on Lady
Rosamond daily suggested itself to the mind of her thoughtful husband.
He was only happy in her presence--she was the sunshine of his heart, of
his life, of his soul. Without Lady Rosamond this world was a blank--a
region "where light never enters