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 Polly . `` Far from it . I wish to see Judge Banks about altering my will , '' was the awful answer . Polly 's face fell ; her mother gave a despairing sigh ; Toady , who had hovered about the door , uttered a suppressed whistle of dismay ; and Mrs. Kipp looked about her with vengeful satisfaction . `` Get the big carryall and old Bob , so the boy can drive , and all of you come ; the trip will do you good . '' It was like Aunt Kipp to invite her poor relations to go and `` nip their own noses off , '' as she elegantly expressed it . It was a party of pleasure that just suited her , for all the fun was on her side . She grew affable at once , was quite pressing in her invitation , regretted that Sophy was too busy to go , praised Polly 's hat ; and professed herself quite satisfied with `` that dear boy '' for a driver . The `` dear boy '' distorted his young countenance frightfully behind her back , but found a balm for every wound in the delight of being commander of the expedition . The big carryall appeared , and , with much creaking and swaying Mrs. Kipp was got into the back seat , where the big bonnet gloomed like a thunder-cloud .
XXXXX , in a high state of indignation , which only made her look ten times prettier , sat in front with Toady , who was a sight to see as he drove off with his short legs planted against the boot , his elbows squared , and the big whip scientifically cracking now and then .
Judge Kipp Polly Sophy Van balm carryall days wiseacres years