Enola; Or, Her Fatal Mistake - Mary Young Ridenbaugh

This historic book may have numerous typos, missing text or index. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. 1886. Not illustrated. Excerpt: ... quite consequential, with his boutonniere and buff kid gloves. He felt that he was dressed for a particular occasion, and his little witty sayings amused every one. Mrs. Dale was arrayed in a handsome, heavy black satin, richly trimmed in lace, which contrasted well with her iron-gray hair. She wore a thoughtful expression, and frequently, from deep emotion, tears would came rushing to her eyes, and as rapidly be brushed aside. It was a trying hour for her--it was Alcia's wedding day. A tranquil, azure sky and a golden sun heralded the happy event, dispelling all doubts of an ill-mated pair, or a life of woe to the high contracting parties. With rain comes tears, and sunlight brings joy. Happiness is promised them in the uncertain future. What a struggle it was to her to give up her idolized child. No one can doubt but that her heart was sad, for in taking a retrospective view of her past life, she could well say with the poet: "O, eyer thus, from childhood's hour I've seen my fondest hopes decay; I never loved a tree or flower, But 'twas the first to fade away." She felt that dear little Baring alone was left her; all other ties torn from her, either by the ruthless hand of death, or alienations more painful than the grim monster. Living sorrows feed upon the soul as the gnawing cancer-worm eats on and knows no satiety. She felt convinced in her own mind that Auguste Manwell would make a model husband, that his love for her daughter was of that pure and holy nature that could but ensure great happiness to both, yet she felt that in giving Alcia to him she was losing her child. Still, with a prayerful heart, she yielded to the desires of her daughter, and placed her happiness in the keeping of the man of her choice. The solemn vows are consummated 'that bind for...