The £1,000,000 bank-note, and other new storiesTwain, Mark
General
The £1,000,000 bank-note, and other new stories
Twain, Mark
American essays -- 19th century; American fiction -- 19th century; Humorous stories, American
Receive the deepest emotions of my heart for thy constant love, and
may the power of inspiration be thy guide, thy portion, and thy all.
In great haste,
‘Yours faithfully,
‘AMBULINIA.’
‘I now take my leave of you, sweet girl,’ said Louisa, ‘sincerely
wishing you success on Sabbath next.’ When Ambulinia’s letter was handed
to Elfonzo, he perused it without doubting its contents. Louisa charged
him to make but few confidants; but, like most young men who happened to
win the heart of a beautiful girl, he was so elated with the idea, that
he felt as a commanding general on parade, who had confidence in all,
consequently gave orders to all. The appointed Sabbath, with a delicious
breeze and cloudless sky, made its appearance. The people gathered in
crowds to the church—the streets were filled with the neighbouring
citizens, all marching to the house of worship. It is entirely useless
for me to attempt to describe the feelings of Elfonzo and Ambulinia, who
were silently watching the movements of the multitude, apparently
counting them as they entered the house of God, looking for the last one
to darken the door. The impatience and anxiety with which they waited,
and the bliss they anticipated on the eventful day, is altogether
indescribable. Those that have been so fortunate as to embark in such a
noble enterprise, know all its realities; and those who have not had
this inestimable privilege, will have to taste its sweets, before they
can tell to others its joys, its comforts, and its Heaven-born worth.
Immediately after Ambulinia had assisted the family off to church, she
took the advantage of that opportunity to make good her promises. She
left a home of enjoyment to be wedded to one whose love had been
justifiable. A few short steps brought her to the presence of Louisa,
who urged her to make good use of her time, and not to delay a moment,
but to go with her to her brother’s house, where Elfonzo would for ever
make her happy. With lively speed, and yet a graceful air, she entered
the door and found herself protected by the champion of her confidence.
The necessary arrangements were fast making to have the two lovers
united—everything was in readiness except the Parson; and as they are
generally very sanctimonious on such occasions, the news got to the
parents of Ambulinia before the everlasting knot was tied, and they both
came running, with uplifted hands and injured feelings, to arrest their
daughter from an unguarded and hasty resolution. Elfonzo desired to
maintain his ground, but Ambulinia thought it best for him to leave, to
prepare for a greater contest. He accordingly obeyed, as it would have
been a vain endeavour for him to have battled against a man who was
armed with deadly weapons; and, besides, he could not resist the request
of such a pure heart. Ambulinia concealed herself in the upper story of
Public-domain text, read in full here on John Shaqi.
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