The Mission of Poubalov — page 17: what you’re looking at

Machine-transcribed from the original scan — historical spelling and the odd misread are preserved.

THEIR WEDDING MORNING. 13 the suggestion of a coming outburst of harmony, for pres-- ently, as the joyful procession would be ready to move, he would open all the gates of sound and flood the edifice with the triumphal strains of the Wedding March, strains that seem light and music, too, to all listeners and be- holders. Within the vestibule the bridal party awaited the coming of the groom. There, too, were Ivan’s two friends, todo him honor by marching with him; one a Russian like himself, the other an American. With smiling faces they all endeavored to conceal annoyance that was speedily turning to anxiety over Ivan’s delay. Clara Hilman, as lovely a bride as ever donned the orange-decked veil, stood with palpitating heart beside her uncle and guardian, Matthew Pembroke. With awk- ward words he was trying to soothe what he felt must be her fears. All about them were pretty children dressed to follow the bride, and Clara’s dearest girl friends. Within the chancel Dr. Merrill waited, wondering a little, but not permitting himself to attach hasty blame to anybody for this embarrassing hitch in the proceedings. The or- ganist looked inquiringly at the group that had found places in the choir loft and they returned his gaze by shakes of the head. “You are more nervous than I am, uncle,’’ said Clara with an attempt at bravery, though her trembling lips betrayed her; ‘‘he will be here.’? ‘There he is!’’ cried Ralph Harmon, one of Ivan’s friends, as a Carriage was seen to turn into the avenue from a street a little way off, and come hurrying toward the church. ‘‘Be ready to tell the organist,’’ he whispered to a boy who stood near. Lhe waiting procession fell into partial disarray as every one craned his or her neck to see the bridegroom step from the carriage which now halted at the steps All, nearly all, could see through the open doors as the driver dismounted and opened the door. A shiver of disappointment passed over the wedding