The preparations are ended; the guests are come; no great number.

A few unavoidable Tempests, a few necessary Greys (I have told you, have not I, that my name is Grey ?).

The heels have been amputated from a large number of white satin slippers, preparatory to their being thrown after us.

The school-children have had their last practice at the marriage-hymn.
I have resolved to rise at five o'clock on my wedding-morning, so as to make a last gloomy progress round every bird and beast and gooseberry-bush on the premises.

I have exacted--binding her by many stringent oaths--a solemn promise from Barbara to make me, if I do not do so of my own accord, at the appointed hour.