JERRY being now perfectly established in the good opinion of MISS ROSEBUD, became doubly attentive in his visits; when the minutes, the hours, the days, nay, the weeks almost appeared to fly, so fascinated was JERRY with the company and attractions of our charming heroine. In truth, the time of JERRY was completely occupied with hunting, dinners, card-parties, assemblies, &c., accompanied by TOM; and his life appeared so happy, that he congratulated himself on his return to the seat of his father, also upon the hair-breadth escapes he had met with, during his Day and Night Scenes in London.
During a walk one fine evening, and Hawthorn Church appearing in view, JERRY was determined to make the best use of the opportunity which offered itself, by soliciting MARY ROSEBUD to name the day that was to complete his happiness. “I have always promised my father,” replied MARY, with the utmost frankness, “that he should name the wedding-day; therefore, gain his consent, and you will have no complaint to make against my decision.” “I will be your father upon that joyful occasion,” said the CORINTHIAN, “if you will permit me, my dear MISS ROSEBUD, as I am very anxious to bestow on my friend JERRY one of the greatest treasures in this life,--a most amiable companion and virtuous wife.” MISS ROSEBUD blushed at the remark, but nevertheless felt pleased with the compliment paid by the CORINTHIAN; and the subject was dropped until they arrived at Rosebud Cottage. The father of our heroine, on being made acquainted with the wishes of the young folks, observed, “I am quite content; and I sincerely hope they will prove one of the happiest couples alive. Therefore, let the settlements be drawn immediately, the licence procured without delay, the dresses made offhand, our friends invited in good time, and OLD JOLLYBOY requested to hold himself in readiness. Now, having settled this marriage business to my mind, let us have a jolly evening together, before we part; and to-morrow, JERRY, what do you say to a day’s hunting? And your cousin, TOM, I have no doubt, will make one of the party.” “It will afford me great pleasure,” replied the CORINTHIAN; “and we will be in time to start with you.” The evening was spent in great jollity.--“The single married, and the married happy,” were toasted over and over again by the party, until JERRY became as lively as a lark, OLD ROSEBUD roaring out the view halloo! The CORINTHIAN quite merry and facetious, and OLD JOLLYBOY rather above par, hiccoughing, every now and then, with an attempt to pun, that he was “fond of (_a_) _good living_!”