them as then 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 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 forever 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 endeavor 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 the
house, fearing the rebuke of her father; the door
was locked, and no chastisement was now expected.
Esquire Valeer, whose pride was already touched,
resolved to preserve the dignity of his family.
He entered the house almost exhausted, looking wildly
for Ambulinia. “Amazed and astonished
indeed I am,” said he, “at a people who
call themselves civilized, to allow such behavior
as this. Ambulinia, Ambulinia!” he cried,
“come to the calls of your first, your best,
and your only friend. I appeal to you, sir,”
turning to the gentleman of the house, “to know
where Ambulinia has gone, or where is she?”
“Do you mean to insult me, sir, in my own house?”
inquired the gentleman. “I will burst,”
said Mr. V., “asunder every door in your dwelling,
in search of my daughter, if you do not speak quickly,
and tell me where she is. I care nothing about
that outcast rubbish of creation, that mean, low-lived
Elfonzo, if I can but obtain Ambulinia. Are you
not going to open this door?” said he.
“By the Eternal that made Heaven and earth!
I will go about the work instantly, if this is not
done!” The confused citizens gathered from all
parts of the village, to know the cause of this commotion.