sity to return, and soon sailed for America, arrived at Boston,
came to New-Haven, took orders in the ministry, and had reached home
that day. He informed them that Mr. Simpson and family had arrived at
his father's, and some relatives whom his mother had invited.

The next morning ushered in the day in which the hero and heroine of our
story were to consummate their felicity. No _cross purposes_ stood ready
to intervene their happiness, no obdurate father, no watchful, scowling
aunt, to interrupt their transports. It was the latter end of May;
nature was arrayed in her richest ornaments, and adorned with her
sweetest perfumes. The sun blended its mild lustre with the landscape's
lovely green; silk-winged breezes frolicked amidst the flowers; the
spring birds carolled in varying strains:

"The air was fragrance, and the world was love."

Evening was appointed for the ceremony, and Edgar was to be the
officiating clergyman.

"To tie those bands which nought but death can sever."

When the hour arrived, they repaired to the house of Melissa's father,
where numerous guests had assembled. Melissa was introduced into the
bridal apartment, and took her seat among a brilliant circle of ladies.
She was attired in robes "white as the southern clouds," spangled with
silver, and trimmed with deep gold lace; her hair hung loosely upon her
shoulders, encircled by a wreath of artificial flowers. She had regained
all her former loveliness; the rose and the lily again blended their
tinges in her cheek; again _pensive sprightliness_ sparkled in her eye.

Alonzo was now introduced, and took his seat at the side of Melissa. His
father and mother came next, who were placed at the right hand of the
young couple: Melissa's parents followed, and were stationed at the
left. Edgar then came and took his seat in front; after which the guests
were summoned, who filled the room. Edgar then rising, motioned to the
intended bride and bridegroom to rise also. He next turned to Alonzo's
father for his sanction, who bowed assent. Then addressing his own
father, with emotions that scarcely suffered him to articulate. "Do you,
sir, said he, give this lady to that gentleman?" A solemn silence
prevailed in the room. Melissa was extremely agitated, as her father
slowly rising, and with down-cast eyes,

"Where tides of heavy sorrow swell'd,"

took her trembling hand, and conveying it into Alonzo's, "May the smiles
of heaven rest upon you, he sa