3-074-846 - The Print Collector/Heritage Images

My Matrimonial Suit, drawn by J. P. Atkinson, 1883. Illustration to a short story. '...a horrible suspicion flashed upon me. I had got somebody else's portmanteau!...my lost portmanteau contained all my wedding garments for next morning's ceremony. A cold perspiration broke out upon my forehead...[At] the [tailor's] shop...our new ally...proceeded to take my measure for a coat...At ten o'clock precisely, the next morning, Mr. Munks presented himself with the parcel...I cannot say that it was an unqualified success. Strict accuracy compels me to state that the structure was tight where it ought to be loose, and loose where it ought be tight...I arrived at the church ; and...I unbuttoned my coat to get at the ring, when - pop! - something flew off and struck Sir Hylton right in the middle of the nose...When the time came to kneel down, a direful crash resounded to the rafters, and I felt my coat suddenly loosen across the back...A distinct giggle began to be heard...then I saw that Sir Hylton's face was purple...Laura and I often laugh over the remembrance of that day, and wish that everyone else may achieve as much lasting happiness as we have found from the outcome of a matrimonial suit'. J. F. A. From "Illustrated London News", 1883.