I first noticed him as the bridal party entered the room, and took
their places in front of the clergyman who was to officiate on the
occasion. He occupied a position that gave him a clear view of
Delia's face, while he was removed from general observation. Almost
from the commencement to the ending of the ceremony his gaze rested
on her countenance. His head was thrown a little forward, his brows
slightly contracted, his lips firmly set, and his eyes fixed as if
the object upon which he was gazing held him by an irresistible
fascination. I was so much interested in him that I scarcely looked
at the bride during the ceremony. At last, the minister, in
conclusion, announced the twain to be husband and wife. I saw
Wallingford give a slight start as if a tensely strung chord of
feeling had been jarred. A moment more and the spell was broken!
Every lineament of his countenance showed this. The stern aspect
gave way--light trembled over the softening features--the body stood
more erect as if a great pressure had been removed.
I noticed that he did not hold back in the excitement of
congratulation that followed the ceremony.
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