On the step stood a man about six feet two in height , and proportionately broad and sinewy . He had splendid shoulders , a great crop of curly black hair , big , twinkling blue eyes , and a tremendous crinkly black beard that fell over his breast in shining waves . In brief , Mr. Malcolm MacPherson was what one would call instinctively , if somewhat tritely , `` a magnificent specimen of manhood . '' In one hand he carried a bunch of early goldenrod and smoke-blue asters . `` Good afternoon , '' he said in a resonant voice which seemed to take possession of the drowsy summer afternoon . `` Is Miss Olivia Sterling in ? And will you please tell her that Malcolm MacPherson is here ? '' I showed him into the parlour . Then Peggy and I peeped through the crack of the door . Anyone would have done it . We would have scorned to excuse ourselves . And , indeed , what we saw would have been worth several conscience spasms if we had felt any . Aunt Olivia arose and advanced primly , with outstretched hand . `` Mr. MacPherson , I am very glad to see you , '' she said formally . `` It 's yourself , Nillie ! '' Mr. Malcolm MacPherson gave two strides . He dropped his flowers on the floor , knocked over a small table , and sent the ottoman spinning against the wall . Then he caught Aunt Olivia in his arms and -- smack , smack , smack ! Peggy sank back upon the stair-step with her handkerchief stuffed in her mouth . Aunt Olivia was being kissed !
Presently , Mr. Malcolm MacPherson held her back at arm 's length XXXXX his big paws and looked her over .
On about against if in of over to upon with