tears, but her sweet low tones were distinct and
clear as she took the marriage vows.

So were Lester's; his voice seemed stronger than it had been for weeks,
and when he took the small white-gloved hand in his, the grasp was firm as
well as tender.

"One kiss, my love, my wife!" he pleaded when the ceremony was ended.

A soft blush suffused the fair face and neck, but the request was
granted; she bent over him and for an instant their lips met.

Then Edward embraced her with brotherly affection and good wishes. He
grasped Lester's hand in cordial greeting, then turned and introduced his
new-made friends to the bride and groom.

A table loaded with delicacies stood in an adjoining room, and thither the
brother and sister and their guests now repaired, while for a short season
the invalid was left to quietness and repose that he might recover from
the unwonted excitement and fatigue.

CHAPTER VII.

"Therein he them fall fair did entertain,
Not with such forged shows as fitter been
For courting fools, that courtesies would faine,
But with entire affection plain."
--_Spenser's "Fairy Queen."_

One bright morning in November the Ion family were gathered about the
breakfast-table. Rosie and Walter were there for the first time since
their severe illness, a trifle pale and thin still, but nearly in usual
health, and very glad to be permitted to take their old places at the
table.

Mrs. Dinsmore had returned from her sojourn at the Laurels, the home of
her daughter Rose; the grandchildren there, whom she had been nursing,
having also recovered their health; and so the places of the eldest son
and daughter of the house were the only vacant ones.

Both Elsie and Edward were sorely missed, especially by the mother and
Violet.

"It seems time we had letters again from our absentees, papa," Mrs.
Travilla remarked as she poured the coffee. "We have had none since the
telegram giving the hour for the wedding."

"No, but perhaps we may hear this morning--the mail has not come yet."

"Yes, grandpa; here comes Solon with it," said Harold, glancing from the
window.

In a few moments the man came in bringing the mail-bag, which he handed to
Mr. Dinsmore.

All looked on with interest, the younger ones in eager expectation, while
their grandfather opened it and examined the contents.

"Yes, daughter, there is a letter from each of them, both directed to
you," he said, glancing over