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 for the third time, ushering in the intended recipient of her gift. Her time and care were lost, for either would have been equally acceptable to him.

There was such a child-like simplicity in her manner as she glided across the room, such a sparkling animation in her countenance as she asked him to accept the boquet, that ere he was aware, he gave expression to the thought that rose instinctively and unpremeditatedly to his lips, saying, "No, unless I can have the hand that holds it."

Love's golden hours flew quickly by, and the next May day witnessed the consummation of their plighted vows. Ere three summers passed away, a fairer Rose than ever graced their favorite bower bloomed in their household, and the months glided peacefully on, as day by day added new charms to their treasure, and blessed them with the precious influences of childhood.