e Jan Grimbal. Doan't 'e
fear for him. There'll be a thunder-storm for sartain; then he'll calm
down, as better 'n him have had to 'fore now, an' find some other gal."

With this comfort Chris caressed Phoebe once more, heartily pitying her
helplessness, and wishing it in her power to undertake the approaching
ordeal on the young bride's behalf. Then she departed, her eyes almost
as dim as Phoebe's. For a moment she forgot her own helpless matrimonial
projects in sorrow for her brother and his future wife. Marriage at the
registry office represented to her, as to most women, an unlovely,
uncomfortable, and unfinished ceremony. She had as easily pictured a
funeral without the assistance of the Church as a wedding without it.

CHAPTER IX

OUTSIDE EXETER GAOL

Within less than twelve hours of the time when she bid Chris farewell
Phoebe Lyddon was Phoebe Lyddon no more. Will met her at Newton; they
immediately proceeded to his uncle's office; and the Registrar had made
them man and wife in space of time so brief that the girl could hardly
realise the terrific event was accomplished, and that henceforth she
belonged to Will alone. Mr. Ford had his little joke afterwards in the
shape of a wedding-breakfast and champagne. He was gratified at the
event and rejoiced to be so handsomely and tremendously revenged on his
unfortunate enemy. The young couple partook of the good things provided
for them; but appetite was lacking to right enjoyment of the banquet,
and Will and his wife much desired to escape and be alone.

Presently they returned to the station and arrived there before Phoebe's
train departed. Her husband then briefly explained the remarkable course
of action he designed to pursue.

"You must be a braave gal and think none the worse of me. But't is this
way: I've broke law, and a month or two, or six, maybe, in gaol have got
to be done. Your faither will see to that."

"Prison! O, Will! For marryin' me?"

"No, but for marryin' you wi'out axin' leave. Miller Lyddon told me the
upshot of taking you, if I done it; an' I have; an' he'll keep his word.
So that's it. I doan't want to make no more trouble; an' bein' a man of
resource I'm gwaine up to Exeter by first train, so soon as you've
started. Then all bother in the matter will be saved Miller."

"O Will! Must you?"

"Ess fay, 't is my duty. I've thought it out through many hours. The
time'll soon slip off; an' then I'll come back an' stand to work. H