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Show Page 40 I could only smile stiffly and nod, hoping the desolation I knew was stamped upon my face did not quell Anne's joy. From the way her face lit up whenever she spoke the name Cisly, I decided she had found her intended. (So much for Anne teaching Richard Kean to be jolly!) "And you should have seen Rose," Anne continued, laughter near choking her. "You can imagine the crowd around her as soon as she appeared. Of course most of them were googly-eyed and never did manage to raise their eyes from her bosom long enough to look at her face or ask her any questions. And what do you suppose she went and did?" I raised my eyebrows, hoping Anne would not comment upon my reddened eyes. "Why she's gone and promised herself to two different men, saying she'll decide later which one will be honored with her acceptance. Of course she did not tell the two men she had already promised another. Woe to Rose should they discover both are to wed the same woman!" Anne began to giggle, and since her laughter was such that it made anyone hearing her feel happier, my heart lifted somewhat. Woe indeed! It would be interesting to see what happened on the morrow, for most weddings were to take place as soon as possible so the men could get back to their settlements. Already the Reverends Buck, Mease and Bargrave were hearing vows and giving blessings. |