The bewitching smile with which she received his salute, and
granted his request, at once overcame the disapprobation of the
misanthrope, who, with a relaxation in his countenance, which had
never been perceived before that instant, thanked her in the most
polite terms for such an agreeable mark of distinction. He accordingly
led her to the dining-room, where the ceremony was performed without
delay; and after the husband had asserted his prerogative on her
lips, the whole company saluted her by the name of Mrs. Pickle.
I shall leave the sensible reader to judge what passed at this
juncture within the bosoms of the new-married couple: Peregrine's
heart was fired with inexpressible ardour and impatience; while
the transports of the bride were mingled with a dash of diffidence
and apprehension. Gauntlet saw it would be too much for both to
bear their present tantalizing situation till night, without some
amusement to divert their thoughts; and therefore proposed to pass
part of the evening at the public entertainments in Marylebone
gardens, which were at that time frequented by the best company in
town.
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