But Polly also possessed penetration ; and , well knowing that contradiction would delight Aunt Kipp , she completely took the wind out of her sails , by coolly remarking , -- `` I like fools . '' `` Bless my heart ! what does the girl mean ? '' ejaculated Aunt Kipp . `` Just what I say . If Van is a fool , I prefer simpletons to wiseacres . I know he is shy and awkward , and does absurd things now and then . But I also know that he has the kindest heart that ever was ; is unselfish , faithful and loving ; that he took good care of his old parents till they died , and never thought of himself while they needed him . He loves me dearly ; will wait for me a dozen years , if I say so , and work all his days to make me happy . He 's a help and comfort to mother , a good friend to Toady , and I love and respect and am proud of him , though you do say he is a fool , '' cried Polly heartily . `` And you insist on marrying him ? '' demanded Aunt Kipp . `` Yes , I do . '' `` Then I wish a carriage immediately , '' was the somewhat irrelevant reply . `` Why , aunt , you do n't mean to go so soon ? '' cried Mrs. Snow , with a reproachful glance at the rebellious Polly . `` Far from it . I wish to see Judge Banks about altering my will , '' was the awful answer . Polly 's face fell ; her mother gave a despairing sigh ; Toady , who had hovered about the door , uttered a suppressed whistle of dismay ; and Mrs. Kipp looked about her with vengeful satisfaction . `` Get the big carryall and old Bob , so the boy can drive , and all of you come ; the trip will do you good . ''
It was like Aunt XXXXX to invite her poor relations to go and `` nip their own noses off , '' as she elegantly expressed it .
Bob Judge Kipp Polly Toady Van carryall days wiseacres years