I hoped and worked for this , and to prove how well I practise what I preach , let me present to you -- my wife . '' As he drew forward the plump widow with a face full of smiles and tears , a second rush was made , and congratulations , salutes , exclamations and embraces were indulged in to every one 's satisfaction . As the excitement subsided the major said , simply , -- `` We were married yesterday at Montreaux . Let me hope that you will prove as faithful as I have been , as happy as I am , as blest as I shall be . I loved this lady in my youth , have waited many years , and am rewarded at last , for love never comes too late . '' The falter in his cheery voice , the dimness of his eyes , the smile on his lips , and the gesture with which he returned the pressure of the hand upon his arm , told the little romance of the good major 's life more eloquently than pages of fine writing , and touched the hearts of those who loved him . `` I have been faithful for eleven years . Give me my reward soon , wo n't you , dear ? '' whispered Sidney . `` Do n't marry me to-morrow , and if mamma is willing I 'll think about it by and by , '' answered Amy . `` It is beautiful ! let us go and do likewise , '' said Sigismund to his betrothed . But Helen , anxious to turn the thoughts of all from emotions too deep for words , drew from her pocket a small pearl-colored object , which she gave to Amy with mock solemnity , as she said , turning to lay her hand again in her lover 's , -- `` Amy , our search is over . You may keep the gloves ; I have the baron . '' MY RED CAP `` He who serves well need not fear to ask his wages . '' I It was under a blue cap that I first saw the honest face of Joe Collins . In the third year of the late war a Maine regiment was passing through Boston , on its way to Washington . The Common was all alive with troops and the spectators who clustered round them to say God-speed , as the brave fellows marched away to meet danger and death for our sakes . Every one was eager to do something ; and , as the men stood at ease , the people mingled freely with them , offering gifts , hearty grips of the hand , and hopeful prophecies of victory in the end . Irresistibly attracted , my boy Tom and I drew near , and soon , becoming excited by the scene , ravaged the fruit-stands in our neighborhood for tokens of our regard , mingling candy and congratulations , peanuts and prayers , apples and applause , in one enthusiastic jumble .
While XXXXX was off on his third raid , my attention was attracted by a man who stood a little apart , looking as if his thoughts were far away .
Collins God-speed Helen Maine Sidney Tom Washington fruit-stands salutes second