The capital of the column is crowned with
an artistic Genius of Liberty standing on a globe, and holding in one
hand the broken chains of slavery, and in the other the torch of
enlightenment.
All the boulevards were crowded with artisans in blue blouses, hurrying
to their homes, as the Harrises drove along the quays to Notre Dame. They
were in time to witness the sun burnish with his golden rays the graceful
spire, the majestic tower, and elegant facade, and to enjoy the harmony
of its grand organ within. To know Notre Dame, founded seven centuries
ago, is to learn well the history of Paris, and to study the monuments of
Paris alone, is to acquire the history of France.
Every day some of the Harris party visited the vast Louvre, the most
important public building of Paris, both architecturally and on account
of its wonderful art treasures which are the most extensive and valuable
in the world. Thus two weeks went swiftly by in sight-seeing, and in
preparation for the marriage.
The private parlors, banquet hall, and several rooms for guests of the
Grand Hotel had been secured for Gertrude's wedding, which was to take
place on George's birthday. Though superstition for ages had placed
birthdays under a ban, yet Gertrude herself preferred this day, and all
concurred.
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