Part 35 (1/1)

”My dear friends,” said the General in an agitated voice, ”I am very happy to announce to you the engagement of my daughter to Captain Langrishe.”

At that the cheering broke out, led by Pat. As the dogs joined in, and even the brindle puppy added his shrill note, there was the happiest, merriest uproar lasting over several minutes, during which the General stood, looking proudly from the shy and smiling lovers to those dependants whom he had really made his friends.

And at last, when the pause came, the General spoke:

”And now, my friends,” he said, ”to show that G.o.d is not forgotten in our happiness and in our grateful hearts, we will sing the _Adeste Fideles_.”