A HAPPY OCCASION.

Mr. Benjamin R. Padgett and Miss Carrie F. Marsh were joined in the holy bonds of matrimony, by Rev. R. B. Headden, at the residence of the brides’ parents, on Wednesday evening, January 28th.  Cards of invitation of the most elegant style were freely issued, and a large concourse of friends were there to witness the nuptials and partake of the pleasures of the evening.  By eight o’clock the crowd had gathered, and pending the interval ere the ceremony should take place, all joined in happy converse and mingled pleasantly and socially.  Precisely at twenty minutes past eight the bridal party made their appearance, when the guests hastily opened ranks and hushed their noisy conversation, respectfully observing the brilliant and handsome retinue as they wended their way to the farther end of the room.  The attendants on the right were Miss Mollie Clayton and Mr. Wm. H. Howard, and on the left Miss Georgia Padgett and Mr. W. W. Ricks.  The party assumed their respective positions with grace and dignity and Mr. Headden stepped forward and, in a clear, distinct and sonorous voice, and in his popular style, proceeded to tie the knot which should forever bind those loving young hearts together.  Ben is a handsome fellow at any time, but all those present will agree with us that he shone to advantage that night, especially at the moment the minister closed his remarks.  The accomplished bride looked the picture of beauty, amiability and happiness.  Two other brides of but a few weeks were present, and were among the first to congratulate the happy couple,  After the ceremony and the congratulations were over, the majority of those present sought a congenial companion, when the hum of the tongues again was heard.  About half past ten o’clock supper was announced, and the delighted company moved in solid phalanx to the dining room.  Mrs. Marsh’s reputation as a culinary artist was advanced many degrees that night.  We do not remember ever to have seen in these parts, a more elegant array and greater variety of good things.  We feel safe in announcing that the board had ample justice done it, especially by two or three past-middle-age gentlemen who occupied a formidable position for’nenst the turkey and other substantials. The satisfactory air with which they reached for them, and the number and character of their jokes and anecdotes, were agreeable incidents of the evening.

We heartily congratulate the happy couple, each of whom has made a good choice, and wish them a long life of happiness, usefulness and prosperity.