But I have your word for it, too, and the returning
elasticity of spirits which is manifested in your letters. But I want
to ask a close question: Are you now in feelings as well as judgment
glad that you are married as you are?"
We do not know Speed's answer, nor the final struggle of the man's
heart. We only know that on November 4, 1842, Lincoln was married, the
wedding being almost impromptu. Mrs. Dr. Brown, Miss Todd's cousin, in
the same letter quoted from above, describes the wedding:
"One morning, bright and early, my cousin came down in her excited,
impetuous way, and said to my father: 'Uncle, you must go up and tell
my sister that Mr. Lincoln and I are to be married this evening,' and
to me: 'Get on your bonnet and go with me to get my gloves, shoes,
etc., and then to Mr. Edwards's.' When we reached there we found some
excitement over a wedding being sprung upon them so suddenly. However,
my father, in his lovely, pacific way, 'poured oil upon the waters,'
and we thought everything was 'ship-shape,' when Mrs. Edwards
laughingly said: 'How fortunately you selected this evening, for
the Episcopal Sewing Society is to meet here, and my supper is all
ordered.'
"But that comfortable little arrangement would not hold, as Mary
declared she would not make a spectacle for gossiping ladies to gaze
upon and talk about; there had already been too much talk about her.
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