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The Fatal Marksman.
177

“This night,” said Bertram, “we will keep the bridal feast: to-morrow we shall not be alone; and cannot, therefore, sit so confidentially and affectionately together; let us be happy then—as happy as if all the pleasure of our lives were to be crowded into this one night.”

The forester embraced his family, and was deeply moved.—“But Bertram,” said his wife, “let us be as happy as we will to-night, I’ve a notion the young people will be happier to-morrow. Do you know what I mean?”

“Yes, love, I know what you mean: and let the children know it also, that they may enjoy their happiness beforehand. Do you hear, children? The vicar is invited to-morrow; and as soon as William has passed his examination”——

At this moment a rattling noise and a loud cry from Katharine interrupted the forester’s speech. Kuno’s portrait had again fallen from the wall, and a corner of the frame had wounded Katharine on the temples. The nail appeared

Vol. III.
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