Ruby's Reward — page 369: what you’re looking at

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

eee oe: s The wedding was a brilliant affair and nothing 0c- | curred to nar the occasion in any way. Madam Howland was so far recovered from her in- juries that she was able to appear withont her arm in a sling, although it was still lame and weak, and she looked very handsome and distinguished in her elegant black velvet, point lace and diamonds, while she appeared exceedingly proud of her noble grand- 80n and very fond of the fair lady of his choice, The young couple were united in the sacred bonds by Ruby’s old pastor, who, knowing much of her heroism during her recent troubles, made the service tenderly impressive, and congratulated Walter most heartily afterward, for having won so rare a prize, : The ceremony and reception had been set early in the evening, ag the bride and groom had arranged for a little tour before settling down to the real business and enjoyment of life, and were to leave the city on one of the nicht trains. But when the guests had departed and Ruby had exchanged her wedding dress for her traveling suit, Mr. Ruggles drew them both into the library for a few last words. He seemed deeply agitated, and laymg his hand tenderly upon the lovely bride’s head, he said,in a husky tone : i “My dear child, ever since I have known you, I have been happier than I ever expected to be again in this world atter losing iy own dear daughter, and I want to tell you that, henceforth, all that I have or gain will befons to you. But,’’ he added, with a pa- thetic attempt to smile, for his eyes were full of tears and his lips trembling, “beforé you went away, [ wanted to give you a ‘daughters’ portion and a father’s blessing, so take this, tuck it away some- where where it’ll be sate, and God bless you both!’ He bent and touched Ruby’s forehead with his un- steady lips, shook hands with Walter, and then left the room abruptly, atter having slipped a package into the young wife’s hands. “Dear old man, how good he is! But what is this?’ Ruby asked, looking from the package wide der, husband’s face. % : # : Sgt he Ba et rs