The bands and the surplice and the port wine seemed to be small after all that had been said.

The mother felt that she was in some degree rebuked,--not having yet learned that nothing will so much lessen the enthusiasm one may feel for the work of a barrister, or a member of Parliament, or a clergyman, as a little domestic conversation with the wife of the one or the other.
But Mrs.Munday was a lady possessing much clerical authority, and that which she said had to be endured with equanimity.
Mr.Smirkie seemed to enjoy the occasion, and held his own through the day with much dignity, The archdeacon, and the clergyman of the parish, and Mr.Bromley, all assisted, and nothing was wanting of outward ceremony which a small country church could supply.

When his health was drunk at the breakfast he preached quite a little sermon as he returned thanks, holding his bride's hands in his the while, performing his part in the scene in a manner which no one else would have dared to attempt.
Then there was the parting between the mother and daughter, upstairs, before she was taken away for her ten days' wedding-tour to Brighton.
'My darling;--it is not so far but that I can come and see you very often.' 'Pray do, mamma.' 'And I think I can help you with the children.' 'I am not a bit afraid of them, mamma.

I intend to have my way with them, and that will be everything.

I don't mean to be weak.