Page:The Tsar's Window.djvu/158

 "Then you certainly ought to go home," he exclaimed. "You have been on your feet for an hour and a half, and this service will be an hour long. I can take you to the carriage."

"No, no!" I cried. "It is nonsense. I don't wish to go!"

George drew his brows together, but only said, "If you insist upon it, of course you must stay; but I assure you there is nothing more worth seeing."

There was no time for further discussion, as we entered the hall at that moment. A platform and desk were prepared, as they are in a Lutheran Church, and three priests were waiting in their black gowns. The wedding procession soon entered, and the second service was performed in German. Its simplicity was the greatest possible contrast to the elaborate ceremony which had preceded it. There was a long sermon, consisting of good advice for the young people; then the bride and groom kissed all the family, and walked out. We followed, reaching home between three and four o'clock.

"Well, Tom," said my cousin, as we entered the house, "Dorris made herself famous by nearly fainting in George's arms, while Cheremenieff gazed at them from a distance in jealous despair."

"Did she really?" cried Tom eagerly.

"Certainly," insisted Judith. "Cheremenieff is very far gone, if I am any judge."

In vain I remonstrated. I was made to lie down, while Judith bathed my head and petted me to her heart's content.