I was abruptly disturbed by the entrance of Miss Osborne--she was older than I, and used to such things--she did not understand the intense secret excitement which I had reached to by this time. She came up to me in a flutter of silk, and lace, and ribbons; she laid cordial hands upon me and kissed me. Having neither mother, sisters, nor female friends, I was very shy of the salutations which are current among young ladies. I felt myself shrink a little from the kiss, and my color rose in spite of myself. Miss Osborne laughed, and was astonished, and tried to encourage me. "Don't give way, there's a dear; poor little thing, how nervous you look, come lean on me, love, and get ready; where's some gloves? and her handkerchiefs? she must keep up her heart now, must she not?" This was addressed in a half-satirical tone to Alice, and Alice as well as myself was considerably discomposed by the cool activity and gaiety of our visitor. "Dear, there is the carriage waiting for you at the door," whispered Alice in my ear. "Don't tremble, darling--don't now, it'll be all over before you know." And when I went down stairs, I did not see either Harry or Mr. Osborne, though I suppose they were both there; I saw only my father's white thin hand take mine and lead me away--and then we drove from the door. I recollect quite well seeing the people in the streets as we drove along, and being struck with a vague wonder whether this day was really the same as any other day to all those strangers. Then came the church, a confused and tremulous picture--and then a voice addressed us, and I had to say something and so had Harry, and the scene suddenly cleared up, and became distinct for an instant before me, when with a shock and start I found my hand put into his hand; and by and bye all was over, and we came away.