midday
The five men returned to the starting point , where the victor was greeted by loud whoops . The groom got the first drink from the bottle , then came the attendants , and others in order , after which the bottle was put away to be kept as a memento of the occasion . The party now repaired to the village and marched to the home of the bride . The hour for the observance of the marriage rites was just before the midday meal . When the groom reached the bride 's home he found her in readiness . Sweet and pretty Alice looked in her gray linsey gown , perfectly plain and simple though it was , without an ornament or a ribbon . Proud indeed looked her lover as he took her hand and led her up to the waiting minister .