It will soon be too cold for our jaunts and of course I ca n't keep Nap through the winter . I hate to part with him , I 've grown so fond of him , but I must . '' She looked regretfully at Nap , who was nibbling Mr. Smiles 's clover aftermath . He was sleek and glossy . It had been the golden summer of Nap 's life . Mr. Smiles coughed in an embarrassed fashion . Miss Cordelia looked at him and was amazed to see that not a smile was on or about his face . He looked absurdly serious . `` I want to buy Nap , '' he said in a sepulchral tone , `` but that is not the only thing I want . I want you too , ma'am . I 'm tired of being a cross old bachelor . I think I 'd like to be a cross old husband , for a change . Do you think you could put up with me in that capacity , Miss Cordelia , my dear ? '' Miss Cordelia gave a half gasp and then she had to laugh . `` Oh , Mr. Smiles , I 'll agree to anything if you 'll only smile again . It seems unnatural to see you look so solemn . '' The smiles at once broke loose and revelled over her wooer 's face . `` Then you will come ? '' he said eagerly . Half an hour later they had their plans made .
At New Year 's Miss XXXXX was to leave her school and sooty Pottstown and come to be mistress of Beechwood Farm .
Cordelia Smiles capacity course fashion jaunts laugh ma'am winter wooer