`` Mother , did aunt say anything about coming this week ? '' asked Polly , after a pause of intense thought over a breadth with three darns , two spots , and a burn . `` Yes ; she wrote that she was too feeble to come at present , as she had such dreadful palpitations she did n't dare stir from her room . So we are quite safe for the next week at least , and -- bless my soul , there she is now ! '' Mrs. Snow clasped her hands with a gesture of dismay , and sat as if transfixed by the spectacle of a ponderous lady , in an awe-inspiring bonnet , who came walking slowly down the street . Polly gave a groan , and pulled a bright ribbon from her hair . Toady muttered , `` Oh , bother ! '' and vainly attempted to polish up his countenance with a fragmentary pocket-handkerchief . `` Nothing but salt fish for dinner , '' wailed Mrs. Snow , as the shadow of the coming event fell upon her . `` Van will make a fool of himself , and ruin everything , '' sighed Polly , glancing at the ring on her finger . `` I know she 'll kiss me ; she never will let a fellow alone , '' growled Toady , scowling darkly . The garden gate clashed , dust flew from the door-mat , a heavy step echoed in the hall , an imperious voice called `` Sophy ! '' and Aunt Kipp entered with a flourish of trumpets , for Toady blew a blast through his fingers which made the bows totter on her bonnet . `` My dear aunt , I 'm very glad to see you , '' murmured Mrs. Snow , advancing with a smile of welcome ; for though as weak as water gruel , she was as kind-hearted a little woman as ever lived . `` What a fib that was ! '' said Toady , sotto voce . `` We were just saying we were afraid you would n't '' -- began Mary , when a warning , `` Mind now , Polly , '' caused her to stop short and busy herself with the newcomer 's bag and umbrella . `` I changed my mind . Theodore , come and kiss me , '' answered Aunt Kipp , briefly . `` Yes 'm , '' was the plaintive reply , and , closing his eyes , Toady awaited his fate with fortitude .
But the dreaded salute did not come , for Aunt XXXXX exclaimed in alarm , -- `` Mercy on us !
Kipp Polly Snow Theodore Toady burn door-mat palpitations pocket-handkerchief sotto