Correct solution submitted by Killearn Kitties at 4:14 my time today. It is:

... "That night he was almost too happy to sleep, and so much love stirred in his little sawdust heart that it almost burst. And into his boot-button eyes, that had long ago lost their polish, there came a look of wisdom and beauty, so that even Nana noticed it next morning when she picked him up, and said, "I declare if that old Bunny hasn't got quite a knowing expression!"

The Velveteen Rabbit
Margery Williams"

JuniorXMyXLove also submitted this correct response 21 minutes later. I've PMed the first responder to see if she is willing to host the next puzzle.