Having a truly masculine horror of tears , a very tender heart under his tailless jacket , and being much `` tumbled up and down in his own mind '' by the events of the week , the poor little lad felt nerved to attempt any novel enterprise , even that of voluntarily embracing Aunt Kipp . First a grimy little hand came on her shoulder , as she sat sniffing behind the handkerchief ; then , peeping out , she saw an apple-cheeked face very near her own , with eyes full of pity , penitence , and affection ; and then she heard a choky little voice say earnestly , -- `` Do n't cry , aunty ; I 'm sorry I was rude . Please be good to Mother and Polly , and I 'll love and take care of you , and stand by you all my life . Yes , I 'll -- I 'll kiss you , I will , by George ! '' And with one promiscuous plunge the Spartan boy cast himself into her arms . That finished Aunt Kipp ; she hugged him dose , and cried out with a salute that went off like a pistol-shot , -- `` Oh , my dear , my dear ! this is better than a dozen cherakins ! '' When Toady emerged , somewhat flushed and tumbled , Mrs. Snow , Polly , and Van were looking on with faces full of wonder , doubt , and satisfaction . To be an object of interest was agreeable to Aunt Kipp ; and , as her old heart was really softened , she met them with a gracious smile , and extended the olive-branch generally . `` Sophy , I shall give my money to you at once and entirely , only asking that you 'll let me stay with you when Polly 's gone . I 'll do my best to be agreeable , and you 'll bear with me because I 'm a cranky , solitary old woman , and I loved your husband . '' Mrs. Snow hugged her on the spot , and gushed , of course , murmuring thanks , welcomes , and promises in one grateful burst . `` Polly , I forgive you ; I consent to your marriage , and will provide your wedding finery . Mr. Lamb , you are not a fool , but a very excellent young man . I thank you for saving my life , and I wish you well with all my heart . You need n't say anything . I 'm far from strong , and all this agitation is shortening my life . '' Polly and Van shook her hand heartily , and beamed upon each other like a pair of infatuated turtle-doves with good prospects . `` Toady , you are as near an angel as a boy can be . Put a name to whatever you most wish for in the world , and it 's yours , '' said Aunt Kipp , dramatically waving the rest away .
With his short legs wide apart , his hands behind him , and his rosy face as round and radiant as a rising sun , XXXXX stood before the fire surveying the scene with the air of a man who has successfully carried through a difficult and dangerous undertaking , and was n't proud .
First Polly Snow Sophy Spartan Toady Van choky finery turtle-doves