Next morning, as I was on my way to Lenore, I thought of Jessie. I was
reminded of her by the ringing of bells. It might not have been for her
wedding; but no doubt at that same hour the bells of some church were
tolling the announcement of the ceremony, that was to make her a wife.
Poor Jessie! I could not help feeling sorrow for her. That peal, that
should have produced joy both to her and myself, fell upon my ear in
tones of sadness! I fancied--nay, I knew it--that whatever might be her
future fate, she was at that moment unhappy!
Engrossed as I was in my own happiness, it was not natural I should long
dwell upon the misery of another; and I soon ceased to think of her.
"Jessie is not related to me, nor my family," thought I, by way of
stifling my regrets, "she will soon forget her present griefs; and
perhaps be as happy as myself."