the hour of twelve
Besides , when there are a number of lady 's - maids , all busily engaged in decorating a single individual , a difference of opinion relative to the various items of dress always takes place , and occasions much delay . One of them is clear that such and such a colour of riband will best suit the complexion of the wearer ; another holds out strongly for an opposite hue ; and a third silences them both by asserting that neither answer the colour of the bonnet . What sort of flowers would most fittingly ornament the hair was also a subject of protracted debate ; and half-an-hour was wasted in determining whether the riband which was to circle her waist like a zone should hang down or not . Matters , however , were at last adjusted -- the bride was arrayed , the hour of twelve was struck by a small wooden clock which ticked behind the door ; and with the hour there arrived at the cottage a sort of rude palanquin , fashioned of birch-tree boughs , which intertwisted with each other , and were interwoven with branches of flowering shrubs ; and upon this some of the kindest and blithest-hearted of the villagers had agreed to bear May to the kirk . Some modest scruples required to be overcome before she would be induced to avail herself of this mode of conveyance ; and , after being seated , with the bridesmaid walking on one side , and John Darling on the other , the cavalcade began to move . Many hearty good wishes for the happiness of the bride from the elder people , and many joyous shouts from the younger part of the villagers , greeted the ears of the marriage party ; whilst a pretty long train which drew itself out in the rear , sent up its rejoicings on the wind from a distance . But one step must bring us to the altar of Hymen .