So he did , as he stood holding the white pony of his little mistress , for the boy gave an air to whatever he wore and looked like a gentleman even in his livery . The dark-blue coat with silver buttons , the silver band about his hat , his white-topped boots and bright spurs , spotless gloves , and tightly drawn belt were all in perfect order , all becoming , and his handsome , dark face caused many a susceptible maid to blush and simper as they passed him . `` Gentleman Paul , '' as the servants called him , was rather lofty and reserved among his mates , but they liked him nonetheless , for Hester had dropped hints of his story and quite a little romance had sprung up about him . He stood leaning against the docile creature , sunk in thought , and quite unconscious of the watchers and whisperers close by . But as Lillian appeared he woke up , attended to his duties like a well-trained groom , and lingered over his task as if he liked it . Down the avenue he rode behind her , but as they turned into a shady lane Lillian beckoned , saying , in the imperious tone habitual to her , `` Ride near me . I wish to talk . '' Paul obeyed , and amused her with the chat she liked till they reached a hazel copse ; here he drew rein , and , leaping down , gathered a handful of ripe nuts for her . `` How nice . Let us rest a minute here , and while I eat a few , please pull some of those flowers for Mamma . She likes a wild nosegay better than any I can bring her from the garden . '' Lillian ate her nuts till Paul came to her with a hatful of late flowers and , standing by her , held the impromptu basket while she made up a bouquet to suit her taste . `` You shall have a posy , too ; I like you to wear one in your buttonhole as the ladies ' grooms do in the Park , '' said the child , settling a scarlet poppy in the blue coat . `` Thanks , Miss Lillian , I 'll wear your colors with all my heart , especially today , for it is my birthday . '' And Paul looked up at the blooming little face with unusual softness in his keen blue eyes . `` Is it ? Why , then , you 're seventeen ; almost a man , are n't you ? '' `` Yes , thank heaven , '' muttered the boy , half to himself . `` I wish I was as old . I sha n't be in my teens till autumn .
I must give you something , XXXXX , because I like you very much , and you are always doing kind things for me .
Hester Lillian Paul buttonhole copse hatful minute nosegay posy whisperers