He made some inquiries relative to the man's character and circumstances,
and learning that he was really very wealthy, and bore a respectable
reputation, as the world goes, gave his consent to the match.
The preparations went on; dresses and jewels were ordered from Paris,
invitations issued to several hundred guests, and the reception rooms of
their city residence refurnished for the occasion; money was poured out
without stint to provide the wedding feasts and flowers, rich and rare,
for the adornment of the house, and the persons of the girls.
Gertrude did not seem unhappy, but was in a constant state of excitement,
and would not allow herself a moment to think.
Ten days before that appointed for the ceremony, the bridegroom arrived in
the city, and called upon the family.
Mr. Ross did not like his countenance, and wondered more than ever at his
daughter's choice.
He waited till Mr. Larrabee was gone, then sent for her to come to him in
the library.
She came, looking surprised and annoyed. "What is it, papa?" she said
impatiently. "Please be as brief as you can; because I've a world of
things to attend to.
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