But she must have been mistaken , she reflected ; it must have been her aunt after all , and the Rev. Cecil Thorne 's shyly displayed interest in her must have been purely professional . `` What a goose I was to be afraid he was in love with me ! '' she thought . Aloud she said , `` He says he will call tomorrow evening to receive your answer . '' `` And , oh , what can I say to him ? '' murmured Miss Madeline in dismay . She wished she had a little of Lina 's experience . `` You are going to -- you will accept him , wo n't you ? '' asked Lina curiously . `` Oh , my dear , no ! '' cried Miss Madeline almost vehemently . `` I could n't think of such a thing . I am very sorry ; do you think he will feel badly ? '' `` Judging from his letter I feel sure he will , '' said Lina decidedly . Miss Madeline sighed . `` Oh , dear me ! It is very unpleasant . But of course I must refuse him . What a beautiful letter he writes too . I feel very much disturbed by this . ''
Miss XXXXX picked up Thomas à Kempis , smoothed him out repentantly , and placed the letter between his leaves .
Lina Madeline Thorne aunt course experience goose interest love thing