, as he observed the
embarrassment of his guest. 'You used to be as bold as a lion. Come here
Kate,' said he to his daughter; 'this young fellow has lost his voice; can
_you_ tell me what he wants?'

It was now Kate's turn to grow confused, and the color to deepen on her
cheek; nor did she utter a word.

'Young man,' continued Rhoneland, in a grave tone, 'I did not send for you
to trifle with your feelings. You love my daughter, and would ask for
_her_, and you fear to do so lest the request should be refused. She is
yours. Treat her kindly, and keep even a shadow of sorrow from falling
upon her brow. If you do not, an old man's curse will rest upon you; and
even though I be dead, and mouldering in my grave, where my voice cannot
reach you, that silent curse will follow you.' He turned abruptly away,
and left the room.

Ned Somers took Kate's hand in his; passed his arm about her waist, and
drew her to him in so singular a manner, that their lips could not but
meet; and not only once, but at least some half-a-dozen times.

'So you're mine at last, Kate!' said he, looking into her very eyes,
whenever they were raised enough for him to do so. 'Did I not tell you to
cheer up; and that all would be well? Did I not say so; and wasn't I
right? And now, Kate,' said he, in a less confident tone, 'your father,
though a most worthy old gentleman, is somewhat whimsical, and might
change his mind; so when shall _it_ be?'

Kate's reply was so very low, that it reached no ears except those of Ned;
but whatever it was, it is certain that on that day month they had been
married a week, and were deep in preparations for a merry-making to be
held on that very evening at Rhoneland's old house, which had been so
furbished up and renovated, under the auspices of the young couple, that
every thing in it seemed to shine again. A party at Jacob Rhoneland's! It
was a thing unheard of, and produced quite a sensation in the drowsy part
of the town where he lived. Never had a household been in such a fluster
as his was. What deep consultations were held to prevent the old man--who
seemed to have grown quite cheerful and light-hearted, and chirruped about
the house like some gay old old cricket--from meddling in every thing, and
to throw dust in his eyes, so as to make him suppose that he was having
every thing in his own way, when in fact he was having nothing. And then
what a time it took, and what entreaties, to prevail on him to let the
gr