Aunt Matilda resigns herself to the necessity of such a marriage, and busies herself in the preparations, for she is determined that there shall be a grand wedding at Woodcliff. There is much to do, for the young pair are to sail for Europe immediately after their marriage. Lavinia Raymond is shocked at such a degradation, and declares that neither she nor her mother will countenance such a sacrifice by their presence; Harry Castleton and Charles Davenport are disgusted when they hear of their new cousin, and several young ladies around Woodcliff utterly surprised. "It may do for Madeline Hamilton to take such a step, she can afford it," said Lizzie Belton; "but for any of us, we should lose caste at once." The wedding day arrived. It was a bright and beautiful morning in the month of May. Madeline arose early, and sat quietly at her chamber window looking out upon the beauteous prospect;--all creation smiled; so felt the young girl--the birds carolled their sweetest songs around the window; flowers bloomed everywhere in rich abundance; the sky was clear, for but a few fleecy clouds floated over the landscape. "This is my wedding day," whispered Madeline, "would that my dear father were here to bless his daughter; but he is in a better land, where there is neither marrying nor giving in marriage." She bowed her head, and prayed in solemn silence for herself, and for him who was henceforth to be her partner in the journey of life; and after the sweet hour of communion with God, descended to the breakfast room; the only marks of emotion visible, the blushing cheek, quivering lip, and dewy eyes. George Stanley and Helen Thornly, with Edmund Norris and Lucy Edmunds, acted as groomsmen and bridesmaids. We need not say that the bride was lovely, nor the groom imposing in his appearance--a full flowing dress of white satin, and a cloud of exquisite lace, through which gleamed diamonds and orange blossoms, enveloped the fair bride. The Bishop of the diocese officiated; for as yet, there was no minister settled in the neighborhood. It was no empty ceremony of mere show for Madeline--she would have prefered a more quiet wedding--but almost unconscious of the presence of so many, she took her solemn vow before God. A sweet smile of happiness played around her mouth, bright rose-tints shone through the bridal veil, and the eyes, when raised to her husband's face, expressed pure and holy confidence, with perfect love. Roland's deportment was calm, dignified, reverential--he looked upon the fair being at his side, as one committed to his love by God himself, and deeply solemn were the vows made on that day, before the marriage altar. Madeline's first glance was for Roland's father, who was standing near. "Bring him here, Roland." She took the pale hand, and presented her cheek to him, saying, "Love me, dear father, you have a daughter now;" and Stephen Bruce looked down upon the fair face and smiled sadly, as he replied,