Page:Life in the Old World - Vol. I.djvu/418

434 given to the last word. The godfather receives her hand, and lays it in that of the bridegroom. He leads her to his father, who is the first to embrace and welcome her. The bride then goes out to dress herself in her bridal attire,—a black dress, with a light violet-gray apron. The more wealthy wear a white one. And upon her white Waldenses head dress, she places a garland of fresh flowers. During this time, the rest take their breakfast.

When the bride comes out again, she gives to every one present, a red and white rosette, which is fastened upon the breast; after which they all go to church. It is not until after the marriage ceremony, and in the church porch, as they come out of church, that the bridegroom places the wedding ring upon the bride's finger. The bridal procession then takes its way homeward. But at the first farm they come to on the way, the farmer's wife stands at the gate and prays the bridal company to enter her house and rest for a moment. “It will not take up much of your time,” she says, “and it will give me great pleasure.” It is impossible to say nay. The bridal company enter and find a table spread with every kind of dish and dainty. They eat and they drink, and they fill their handkerchiefs, and their pockets, with bread or pastry; return thanks, and compliments, take their leave, and again set out on their way home. But at the next farm house, comes a new invitation and a new entertainment. These invitations, which are called des barrieres, are renewed three or four times on the way. At length, however, they reach the bridal-house; where the mother meets the bride and hangs round her waist