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 happened accidentally to be the last person of whom she took leave, whose hand she pressed long and tenderly, mentally asking his forgiveness for the coldness she had once shown him. The grasp was returned, he saying in a low tone, as Mr. Carleton stepped one side, "Remember that I shall always be your friend."

This remark was wholly unpremeditated, and was no sooner made than regretted for its seeming impropriety. Although it might be understood as a guaranty on his part against any future broken friendship, it sprung from no such source, and was quickly construed by Mrs. Carleton as an ill-portending omen. Of a tumultuous character were her bridal anticipations, neither unmixed with regrets nor without the charm of an all-confiding love.