The ceremony was then performed, and the earl led his bride back to the carriage.

On their return they had to undergo another ill-omened interruption.

The dead-cart was stationed near the gateway, and some delay occurred before it could be moved forward.
Amabel, however, suffered no further misgiving to take possession of her.

Deeming herself wedded to the earl, she put no constraint on her affection for him, and her happiness, though short-lived, was deep and full.

A month passed away like a dream of delight.