`` When it rose , and the bright light I almost fear to strike myself against in walking , came into the room , I turned the little tree towards it , and blessed Heaven for making things so precious , and blessed you for sending them to cheer me ! '' `` Bedlam broke loose ! '' said Tackleton under his breath . `` We shall arrive at the strait-waistcoat and mufflers soon . We 're getting on ! '' Caleb , with his hands hooked loosely in each other , stared vacantly before him while his daughter spoke , as if he really were uncertain -LRB- I believe he was -RRB- whether Tackleton had done anything to deserve her thanks or not . If he could have been a perfectly free agent at that moment , required , on pain of death , to kick the toy merchant , or fall at his feet , according to his merits , I believe it would have been an even chance which course he would have taken . Yet Caleb knew that with his own hands he had brought the little rose-tree home for her so carefully , and that with his own lips he had forged the innocent deception which should help to keep her from suspecting how much , how very much , he every day denied himself , that she might be happier . `` Bertha ! '' said Tackleton , assuming , for the nonce , a little cordiality . `` Come here . '' `` Oh , I can come straight to you ! You need n't guide me ! '' she rejoined . `` Shall I tell you a secret , Bertha ? '' `` If you will ! '' she answered eagerly . How bright the darkened face ! How adorned with light the listening head ! `` This is the day on which little what 's - her-name , the spoilt child , Peerybingle 's wife , pays her regular visit to you -- makes her fantastic Picnic here , a n't it ? ''
said XXXXX with a strong expression of distaste for the whole concern .
Bertha Caleb Peerybingle Picnic Tackleton cordiality day fall mufflers strait-waistcoat