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As the period fixed for our marriage drew nearer, whether from

cowardice or a prophetic feeling, I felt my heart sink within me.

But I concealed my feelings by an appearance of hilarity that

brought smiles and joy to the countenance of my father, but

hardly deceived the ever-watchful and nicer eye of Elizabeth. She

looked forward to our union with placid contentment, not

unmingled with a little fear, which past misfortunes had

impressed, that what now appeared certain and tangible happiness

might soon dissipate into an airy dream and leave no trace but

deep and everlasting regret.