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Now it was Adam's turn to be shocked!
"I'm on borrowed time with Mr. Downen, as it is," explained Jeff. "When
word gets out that you're even thinking of moving, I may never get to see Maggie,
again."
"I don't think you can get a marriage license in so short a time," warned
Bill. "And even if you did, it wouldn't be valid for seventy-two hours."
"How do you know that?" asked Adam, in surprise.
"A good manager is always prepared," smiled Bill. "When you and Charlie
became engaged, I did some research."
"Who is the county clerk?" asked Adam. "Isn't it, oh, what's his name?
He and the Mayor once wanted to throw a hero's celebration for me. Councilman Stafford!
That's his name! We could go knock on his door, and get him to issue a marriage license!"
"But, you couldn't get married for three days," warned Bill.
"And, you'd have to keep it a secret!" advised Charlie.
"Three days from now-- isn't that Thanksgiving?" asked Melvin.
"Actually, it's the day after," said Vera, glancing at a wall calendar.
"Maggie," asked Charlie, "didn't you tell your parents that we were
going to have a small celebration at my house the day after Thanksgiving?"
"Yes," replied Maggie.
"There you are, Jeff!" laughed Charlie. "You could get married on
that day! And instead of celebrating Thanksgiving, we'll celebrate your wedding!
What do you think?"
"I think we need to go get that marriage license," said Jeff, urgently.
"Charlie, you stay here," instructed Adam, putting on a coat and baseball
cap to try and disguise himself a little. "Jeff, Maggie, and I have to go visit
Councilman Stafford!"
The three hurried out the door, leaving Charlie to thank God for such a happy turn
of events. When they returned a few hours later, Jeff showed Charlie the marriage
license. Now all they had to do was wait, and keep the secret tightly guarded!
"His [God's] secret is with the righteous."
~ Proverbs 3:32 ~
"Discretion shall preserve thee, understanding shall keep thee."
~ Proverbs 2:11 ~
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