Page:By Sanction of Law.pdf/156

 In their caps and gowns the candidates for degrees were assembling under the guidance of their chief marshal and aids. The scene was one of kaleidoscopic, ever changing colorations. The band was discoursing lively tempting music; here and there couples unable to resist the appeal were swaying to the strains. Prominent among those gathered were the parents and family of Bennet.

The father, a dignified, kindly-eyed man, with a smiling, genial face, hair turned iron gray, walked erect, head lifted, about the yard, his wife, a delightfully motherly soul on his arm. Behind them or at their side, never still, fluttered a daughter, laughingly waving to acquaintances, newly made or those of longer standing, a charming bit of human vitality, a bit chic and yet wholesome. This was certainly a marked family.

Mrs. Bennet was rather grave in her serenity and seemed preoccupied with pride in the popularity of her son, her eyes following him everywhere as he moved from one group of friends to another. This was a proud moment for her as well.

As they walked about, Bennet hailed them in passing, with:

"Hello, father. Having a good time?"

The elder man only smiled. Bennet lifted the serene face of his mother and kissed her cheeks.

"Mother I'm happy today." His happines showing in his face.

"You ought to be, my son. This is a day I've long prayed to come to you. Make the most of it."