But Lenz dismissed all such thoughts speedily from his mind, and was merry and gay till late into the night. The relations who lived at a distance had already left. It was time for the bridal pair to be starting, for custom required them to be at home before midnight. "You were right, Annele," Lenz said when they were in the little parlor together. "I am sorry there is no carriage-way to our house. Wrap yourself up warm." "You will find I am right in a great many things," answered Annele. Pilgrim had arranged the procession with great skill. First went the musicians, then the bridal pair, preceded and followed by two torch-bearers, and, lastly, children carrying the beautiful presents,--bowls, plates, glasses, and salvers, interspersed with flaming pine-knots. On reaching the mountain the procession fell into disorder, as it had to move in single file. "You go in front," said Lenz to Annele; "I willingly yield precedence to you." They reached the house at last, the presents were deposited, the musicians played one more merry dance, three cheers were given, and then the sound of music died away in the valley. "We are in heaven, and know there is joy over us on earth," said Lenz. "I had no idea you could talk so finely," returned Annele. "How still it is all of a sudden!" "Wait; I have another musical clock here. Thank Heaven I can make my own music now, and for only our two selves." He set his instrument playing Beethoven's "Meerestille." Long it played on by itself, when all else in the house was still. CHAPTER XXII. THE MORNING GIFT. "I am glad we celebrate our wedding again today,--aren't you, little wife?" asked Lenz, the next morning. "No; why are you?" "My crying spoiled my enjoyment yesterday; this morning, for the first time, I am perfectly happy. To-day will seem like going to a friend's wedding,--won't it?" "What a strange man you are!" said Annele, smiling. "Stop!" said Lenz, suddenly starting up. "I must give you something. Wait a minute." He went into the chamber, and made a long search. What would he bring out? He must have remembered the gold chain and ear-rings that were the bridegroom's usual present. But he should have given them yesterday; why to-day? Annele had plenty of time to wonder before Lenz returned. "Here I have it," he exclaimed, coming back at last. "I had misplaced it. This is my blessed mother's garnet necklace. It is made of good old garnets, and will look beautifully on your dear neck. Come, try it on!" "No, Lenz, it is too old-fashioned. I cannot wear it. It would scratch my neck too. I really cannot wear it. I will exchange it at the jeweler's. "That you shall not." "Just as you like. What else have you there?" "This is something I can give to no one but yourself. My blessed mother so directed. It has no value in itself, but yet is very wonderful." "Show me the wonder." "See!" "What is it?"