Alice wished her joy heartily,--"heartily," she said, but had declined that office of bridesmaid. She did not wish to undergo the cold looks of the Lady Julias and Lady Janes who all would know each other, but none of whom would know her. So she sent her cousin a little ring, and asked her to keep it amidst all the wealthy tribute of marriage gifts which would be poured forth at her feet.

Alice wished her joy heartily, and sent her cousin a little ring, but declined the office of bridesmaid. 