It would be impossible to describe the magnificence with which this event was celebrated. The costly additions that were made to the furniture; the expensive dresses that were provided for the bride; and the sumptuous entertainments that were given to the company that attended, far exceeded all imaginary description. Indeed, there was scarcely any thing wanting for which she could have wished. A new dining hall was prepared; and all the utensils of the table used upon the occasion, were manufactured of pure gold and silver: and persons were sent many miles to procure the greatest delicacies that could possibly be obtained. [Illustration: Mrs. Blue Beard examining her husband's treasures.] But the greatest solicitude was shown in preparing the attire of the intended bride. Whatever wealth could purchase, or ingenuity contrive, were provided to give to her natural charms all the embellishments which art could bestow. Nor was Blue Beard himself unemployed: he not only gave orders for himself, but all his servants were provided with the richest clothes, according to their respective situations. Numerous as were his horses, additional ones were purchased; and new carriages of the grandest designs and the most costly materials, were prepared for his bride against the approaching happy day. [Illustration: Mrs. Blue Beard opens the door of the forbidden chamber.] When the morning arrived on which this interesting ceremony was to take place, the day had scarcely dawned when sounds of joy were heard. The servants arose to prepare for the series of magnificence that was to take place; but none of them were moving about earlier than the bride and bridegroom; who, as they were the most immediately interested, were also the most anxious, and therefore among the most early, in preparing for the events of the day. The company assembled to breakfast, and every thing marked the magnificence of the occasion; and every countenance contributed to the general cheerfulness. The church in which the ceremony was to take place was at some distance. The company proceeded thither in ten carriages, each drawn by six horses, and attended by a great retinue of servants. The carriage in which the bride and bridegroom were seated, was drawn by Arabian horses; the harness was made of white silk, woven on purpose; the trappings were of pure silver; the carriage itself was chiefly formed of pearl, ivory, and silver; and was lined with white satin, beautifully embossed. [Illustration: Mrs. Blue Beard and her sister considerably astonished.] When the procession approached the church, it was met by one hundred young maidens, dressed in white, singing to a band of the most skilful musicians: and when the company alighted, the young maidens strewed flowers for them to walk upon.