problem of law, which, at this late hour, brings matters to a singular point. He believes franconia suffers from a nervous affection, as the doctors call it, and has fixed her mind upon the only object of relief. He had made no preparation for such a critical event but there is no postponing the ceremony,no depriving her of the indulgence. Not a moment is to be lost he sets off, posthaste, for the sheriffs office. That functionary is well known for his crude method of executing business to ask a favour of him would be like asking the sea to give up its dead. He is cold,