Thames!--my lord marquis, I mean--you have made me the
happiest--the proudest of mankind."

Not many days after this event, on a bright October morning, the bells
rang a merry peal from the old gray tower of Willesden church. All the
village was assembled in the churchyard. Young and old were dressed in
their gayest apparel; and it was evident from the smiles that lighted up
every countenance, from the roguish looks of the younger swains, and the
demure expression of several pretty rustic maidens, that a ceremony,
which never fails to interest all classes,--a wedding,--was about to
take place.

At the gate opening upon the road leading to Dollis Hill were stationed
William Morgan and John Dump. Presently, two carriages dashed down the
hill, and drew up before it. From the first of these alighted Thames,
or, as he must now be styled, the Marquis de Chatillon. From the second
descended Mr. Wood--and after him came his daughter.

The sun never shone upon a lovelier couple than now approached the
altar. The church was crowded to excess by the numbers eager to witness
the ceremony; and as soon as it was over the wedded pair were followed
to the carriage, and the loudest benedictions uttered for their
happiness.

In spite of the tumultuous joy which agitated him, the bridegroom could
not prevent the intrusion of some saddening thoughts, as he reflected
upon the melancholy scene which he had so recently witnessed in the same
place.

The youthful couple had been seated in the carriage a few minutes when
they were joined by Mr. Wood, who had merely absented himself to see
that a public breakfast, which he had ordered at the Six Bells for all
who chose to partake of it, was in readiness. He likewise gave
directions that in the after part of the day a whole bullock should be
roasted on the green and distributed, together with a barrel of the
strongest ale.

In the evening, a band of village musicians, accompanied by most of the
young inhabitants of Willesden, strolled out to Dollis Hill, where they
formed a rustic concert under the great elm before the door. Here they
were regaled with another plentiful meal by the hospitable carpenter,
who personally superintended the repast.

These festivities, however, were not witnessed by the newly-married
pair, who had departed immediately after the ceremony for Manchester.

CHAPTER XXIX.

How Jack Sheppard was taken to Westminster Hall.

Loaded with the heaviest fetter