how can you know that , when you never saw him ? '' mildly returned Mrs. Snow . `` I 've heard of him , and that 's enough for me . I 've a deal of penetration in judging character , and I tell you Van Bahr Lamb is a fool . '' The amiable old lady thought this would rouse Polly , against whom her anger still burned hotly . 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 XXXXX .
Kipp Lamb Polly Toady Van contradiction days parents wiseacres years