Adam persevered for three tumultuous, rocky years. His devotion to Clemence, though severely tried, never wavered. Even as he was adjusting to his new life in Sainte Marie Kerque he wondered what had become of his family that he had left behind. They heard rumors from Calais of savage fighting and great destruction. Adam did not dare return for fear of what he would find at home and fear of losing his place in his new home. By the end of the first year, however, he became Monsieur Niel’s assistant in the shoemaker trade and earned a growing respect in the little village. Finally, feeling more secure in his place, he made a visit to Calais. His family had actually prospered. His older brother, Jean-Paul, had profited from the upheaval of the Spanish occupation, by starting a successful business contracting out day laborers. Greatly relieved, Adam returned to his new life. Matters between Adam and Clemence continued as before but he remained steadfastly devoted and true to his word. Things were particularly difficult during the summer of 1599. She was distant and avoided him. Adam started feeling hopeless. Three years and no sign of taming, marriage or now, even regard! Then abruptly she reversed her attitude. One fall day, she came to him and explained that his loyalty and devotion had earned him the right to make her his wife. Adam rejoiced! The Neil family rejoiced! Madame Neil started organizing all the details; Monsieur Neil met with the lawyer to make all the legal arrangements. Clemence, now that she made her decision, committed herself completely and solely to Adam. Oblivious to all the wedding arrangements, they lived in a cocoon of happiness. The wedding took place on Christmas Eve, 1599. The extended families of the couple gathered for the occasion. There were Cortons, and Niels and all their relations; Jean-Paul and his wife came out from Calais. The priest married them on the steps of the church, as was customary. Adam’s little nephew, Baptista, bore the rings for the exchange of vows. Afterwards they all entered the church for the celebration of mass and then adjourned for the wedding feast at the inn. Adam’s joy was complete when Clemence announced, a month later, that he would be a father.
For more on period wedding customs and the artist see note 6 in:
Village Wedding by David Teniers "the Younger", (1650) For more on the artist see Note 6:
https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:%27Village_Wedding%27_by_David_Teniers_the_Younger,_1650,_The_Hermitage.JPG#/media/File:'Village_Wedding'_by_David_Teniers_the_Younger,_1650,_The_Hermitage.JPG
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