d, and happiness on the other. Moreover, thanks to
the boat which they are about to rebuild, Mess Lethierry will also be
rich; which is as it should be. Miss Lethierry was born in this parish;
I have verified the date of her birth in the register. She is of age,
and at her own disposal. Her uncle, too, who is her only relative,
consents. You are anxious to be united immediately on account of your
approaching departure. This I can understand; but this being the
marriage of the rector of the parish, I should have been gratified to
have seen it associated with a little more solemnity. I will consult
your wishes by not detaining you longer than necessary. The essentials
will be soon complied with. The form is already drawn up in the
register, and it requires only the names to be filled in. By the terms
of the law and custom, the marriage may be celebrated immediately after
the inscription. The declaration necessary for the licence has been duly
made. I take upon myself a slight irregularity; for the application for
the licence ought to have been registered seven days in advance; but I
yield to necessity and the urgency of your departure. Be it so, then. I
will proceed with the ceremony. My evangelist will be the witness for
the bridegroom; as regards the witness for the bride----"

The Dean turned towards Gilliatt. Gilliatt made a movement of his head.

"That is sufficient," said the Dean.

Caudray remained motionless; Deruchette was happy, but no less powerless
to move.

"Nevertheless," continued the Dean, "there is still an obstacle."

Deruchette started.

The Dean continued:

"The representative here present of Mess Lethierry applied for the
licence for you, and has signed the declaration on the register." And
with the thumb of his left hand the Dean pointed to Gilliatt, which
prevented the necessity of his remembering his name. "The messenger from
Mess Lethierry," he added, "has informed me this morning that being too
much occupied to come in person, Mess Lethierry desired that the
marriage should take place immediately. This desire, expressed verbally,
is not sufficient. In consequence of having to grant the licence, and of
the irregularity which I take upon myself, I cannot proceed so rapidly
without informing myself from Mess Lethierry personally, unless some one
can produce his signature. Whatever might be my desire to serve you, I
cannot be satisfied with a mere message. I must have some written
document."