I could have had some if I 'd known you were coming . But I think Martha will be able to find something good . '' A very old woman , who looked at Jims with great amazement , came out to set the table . Jims thought she must be as old as Methusaleh . But he did not mind her . He ran races with Black Prince while tea was being prepared , and rolled the delighted cat over and over in the grass . And he discovered a fragrant herb-garden in a far corner and was delighted . Now it was truly a garden of spices . `` Oh , it is so beautiful here , '' he told Miss Avery , who sat and looked at his revels with a hungry expression in her lovely eyes . `` I wish I could come often . '' `` Why ca n't you ? '' said Miss Avery . The two looked at each other with sly intelligence . `` I could come whenever Aunt Augusta shuts me up in the blue room , '' said Jims . `` Yes , '' said Miss Avery . Then she laughed and held out her arms . Jims flew into them . He put his arms about her neck and kissed her scarred face . `` Oh , I wish you were my aunt , '' he said . Miss Avery suddenly pushed him away .
XXXXX was horribly afraid he had offended her .
Avery Jims Martha Methusaleh Prince herb-garden neck races tea woman