The day appointed for the eventful ceremony had arrived.  Cards of invitation having been issued to the most distinguished nobility throughout the kingdom, a vast assemblage of expectant guests filled the seats and aisles of the ancient gothic cathedral in which the marriage was about to be solemnized.  Happy smiles beamed upon all faces as they glanced around the handsome edifice so beautifully decorated for the occasion.  Flowers and garlands were lavishly strewn around, scattered upon the floor, upon the steps, upon the way-side; literally all space was crowned with flowers.  Gerald Bereford was truly a prepossessing bridegroom, worthy of loving and being loved in return.  His truthful countenance was beaming with manly love.  He was now ready to pronounce those vows which in his heart met a ready response.  Lady Rosamond and her train of lovely bridesmaids have arrived.  Hundreds of spectators are anxious to catch a passing glimpse of the beautiful bride as she is led to the altar by Sir Thomas Seymour, who gazes with loving tenderness upon the object so soon to be taken from his heart and home.

The feverish flush of excitement upon the transparent complexion of the bride lent additional aid to her matchless charms.  Lady Rosamond is indeed a creature of surpassing loveliness.  The soft texture of white satin that floats in bewitching folds of drapery around the faultless form is heightened in effect by an intermixture of costly lace and flashing jewels.  The bridal veil, with its coronet of diamonds and orange blossoms, conceals the features so passive in the efforts to conceal the emotions which are struggling within the bosom of the fair one as she slowly utters those vows which, in accordance with her former resolve, she will earnestly strive to perform.  Conscience awakens in her a deep shudder by setting forth painful convictions of promises given where her heart beats no response.  But lady Rosamond felt relief from the thought of her efforts to do what she could to atone for this knowledge.  Her husband would be happy in her presence if not her love.  Those were the thoughts that occupied the lovely bride as she accepted the congratulations of the crowd who gathered around her.  A pleasing smile greeted every one of the guests; even Lady Bereford was satisfied with the grateful acknowledgement.  The bridegroom was a happy man.  He adored his lovely bride.  He looked upon her as the perfect embodiment of love and truth.  Such were the sentiments that stimulated Gerald Bereford as his wife was received into society with all the eclat attendant upon rank, wealth and beauty.  Her appearance on several occasions was hailed with universal delight.  Her unassuming manner, childlike disposition and elegant grace made friends at every footstep.  Jealousy found no favor in the wake of Lady Rosamond.  Her presence was sufficient warning to the green-eyed monster to make hasty retreat.