ones. One cannot altogether forget the old loves, however sweet the new
may be; but when we get to the better land we may hope to have them
all," she added with an appreciative glance at her husband. "Ah, how
delightful that will be!"

There was a moment's silence; then Harold said, "The wedding day having
not been fixed yet the invitations have not been sent out, but I know
mother is hoping to see your parents here at that time, Cousin Mary."

"That is kind," she returned with a pleased smile; "I supposed they
would be invited, and that so I should have the better prospect of
getting a long promised visit from them myself. But if you invite all
the relatives you will have a great many guests to entertain--that is
should all, or nearly all, accept. However, it is more than likely that
by far the larger number will feel constrained to content themselves
with sending regrets, congratulations, and gifts."

"I hope," said Harold quickly and earnestly, "I am sure we all do--that
no one will feel called upon for that last. I trust that will be fully
understood. The parents of both bride and groom being abundantly able to
provide everything necessary or desirable, why should distant relatives
and friends assist in it, perhaps at the cost of embarrassment or
self-denial?"

"But you should not deny the privilege to those who are abundantly able
and would feel it a pleasure," returned Mary with playful look and tone;
"which I am sure is the case with some of the relatives," she added.

"No," said Harold, "I should not deny it, but would have a distinct
understanding that it was not expected or desired, at the cost of