My lady showed unusual interest in the lad , and Lillian openly displayed her admiration for his accomplishments and her affection for her devoted young servitor . Hester was much flattered by the confidence he reposed in her , for to her alone did he tell his story , and of her alone asked advice and comfort in his various small straits . It was as she suspected : Paul was a gentleman 's son , but misfortune had robbed him of home , friends , and parents , and thrown him upon the world to shift for himself . This sad story touched the woman 's heart , and the boy 's manly spirit won respect . She had lost a son years ago , and her empty heart yearned over the motherless lad . Ashamed to confess the tender feeling , she wore her usual severe manner to him in public , but in private softened wonderfully and enjoyed the boy 's regard heartily . `` Paul , come in . I want to speak with you a moment , '' said my lady , from the long window of the library to the boy who was training vines outside . Dropping his tools and pulling off his hat , Paul obeyed , looking a little anxious , for the month of trial expired that day . Lady Trevlyn saw and answered the look with a gracious smile . `` Have no fears . You are to stay if you will , for Lillian is happy and I am satisfied with you . '' `` Thank you , my lady . '' And an odd glance of mingled pride and pain shone in the boy 's downcast eyes . `` That is settled , then . Now let me say what I called you in for . You spoke of being able to illuminate on parchment . Can you restore this old book for me ? '' She put into his hand the ancient volume Sir Richard had been reading the day he died . It had lain neglected in a damp nook for years till my lady discovered it , and , sad as were the associations connected with it , she desired to preserve it for the sake of the weird prophecy if nothing else .
XXXXX examined it , and as he turned it to and fro in his hands it opened at the page oftenest read by its late master .
Hester Lillian Paul Richard Trevlyn day fears servitor tools years