The spirit of democracy. [volume] (Woodsfield, Ohio) 1844-1994, 1851-02-05

miles distant. In the meantime a small
party Of friends, Mrs. Lincoln among the
rest, assembled al the house Of Mr.. Otis,
to offer their congratulations to the happy
couple on their return, and tender the
usual civilities Of all such joyous occa-
sions.
The minister soon performed his part
Of the ceremony. when husband and wife,
with their attendants. Immediately return
ed and were met at the door by Mrs. Lin.
coin, who had volunteered formally to in.
troduce the newly married couple to those
in waiting 10 greet them. ;.
"Allow me, ladies and gentlemen" said
Mrs. Lincoln, ito introduce you TO DR..
Williams, better known as Mr.. George
llamblen, the mechanic-editor, printer,
and publisher of the "Village Chronicle, -
and his lady, hitherto the accomplished
Miss Otis.
All eyes were fixed on Mrs Otis, who
stood amazed. in doubt whether it was best
TO give credit to what she had just heard
as the sober reality, or whether the occa-
sion had been seized upoi. by Mrs. Lin
coin to play off an innocent hoax at her
expense. She was soon, however, con-
vinced that the gentleman. now her SON.
in.law, whom she had known and so high
ly esteemed as '.Dr. Williams" was, in.
deed, none other than PLAIN Geo. Ham
blen, the mechanic.
Collecting herself, and resolving to make
the least of the somewhat awkward posi-
ton in which she found herself placed.
IL perceive" salt! she. taking by the
hand and addressing Mr.. Hamblen. .that
| have, though ! trust not with your ap.
probation, been deceived both in your
name and occupation. Be il so Had
regrets 10 express, this is no place for them;
it is now too lale. With mechanics had
associated the idea Of ignorance and want
Of gentIemanly accomplishments. Hence
my uniavorable opinion Of them as class.
Bur in you observe no deficiency Of ed.
ucaton;-I like your deporiment-yes,
more, | entertained the most entire conf
dence in your honesty and the purity Of
your principles. Why, then, should hes
itate! The little deception. which am
we'll aware has been practised at the in
stance Of her who is now your wife-borne
on by friends, moi excepting her own faith.
er, in whom she con6ded.-is Of slight
moment. Only let there be no further de-
ceplion-as | am sure none is Intended
and can most cheerlully forgive and for
get what has passed Take my daughter;
it is your choice-it is hers.
"To you, my daughter, just entering
upon new and important relations in life
in the language of another, let me advise
you that the good wife is one who is strict
ly and conscientiously virtuous; she is
humble and modest from reason and con-
viction, submissive from choice, and obe-
dient from inclination. What she acquires
by love, she preserves by prudence She
makes it her delight 10 please her husband,
being confident that every thing that will
promote his happiness must, in the end
contribute to her own. She always re-
joices in his prosperity. and by her tender.
ness and good humor, lessen his cares and
Affections. Go-may heaven bless you
BOTH"
Young Hamblen, as may well be sup
posed. was not free from embarrassment
on this occasion. Addressing Mrs. Otis;
"You are correct" said he, ''in the opin-
ion that yielded with great reluctance, to
the little artifce which has been employed.
| finally assented only on the strongest
assurance, from those whom knew to be
your strongest friends that should be held
blameless in lhe matter If have sailed
into port under false colors, it was not
from my own inclination, but in obedience
10 a commanding signal from the very
prize | have captured.