Page:The Story of the Gadsbys - Kipling (1888).djvu/53

 —You've given yourself away quite enough. Her right hand, man! Repeat! Repeat! "Theodore Philip." Have you forgotten your own name?

Captain G. stumbles through Affirmation which Bride repeats without a tremor.

—Now the ring! Follow the Padre! Don't pull off my glove! Here it is! Great Cupid, he's found his voice!

G. repeats Troth in a voice to be heard to the end of the Church, and turns on his heel.

(desperately).—Rein back! Back to your troop! 'Tisn't half legal yet.

.— joined together, let no man put asunder.

Captain G., paralysed with fear, jibs after Blessing.

(quickly).—On your own front—one length. Take her with you. I don't come. You've nothing to say. (Captain G. jingles up to altar.)

(in a piercing rattle, meant to be a whisper).—Kneel, you stiff-necked ruffian! Kneel!

.— whose daughters ye are, so long as ye do well, and are not afraid with any amazement.

—Dismiss! Break off! Left wheel!

''All troop to vestry. They sign''.

—Kiss Her, Gaddy.

(rubbing ink-spot into his glove).—Eh! Wha—at?

(taking one pace to Bride).—If you don't, I shall.

(interposing an arm).—Not this journey!

General kissing, in which Captain G. is pursued by unknown female.

(faintly to M.)—This is Hades! Can I wipe my face now?

—My responsibility has ended. Better ask Missis Gadsby.

Captain G. winces as if shot, and procession is