Paul had spoken hastily , and for an instant looked embarrassed , but answered with a sudden flush on his dark cheeks , `` You have been kind to me , and I am glad to show my , gratitude in any way , my lady . '' `` Let that pass , my boy . Do this little service for me and we will see about the recompense afterward . '' And with a smile Lady Trevlyn left him to begin his work . The moment the door closed behind her a total change passed over Paul . He shook his clenched hand after her with a gesture of menace , then tossed up the old book and caught it with an exclamation of delight , as he reopened it at the worn page and reread the inexplicable verse . `` Another proof , another proof ! The work goes bravely on , Father Cosmo ; and boy as I am , I 'll keep my word in spite of everything , '' he muttered . `` What is that you 'll keep , lad ? '' said a voice behind him . `` I 'll keep my word to my lady , and do my best to restore this book , Mrs. Hester , '' he answered , quickly recovering himself . `` Ah , that 's the last book poor Master read . I hid it away , but my lady found it in spite of me , '' said Hester , with a doleful sigh . `` Did he die suddenly , then ? '' asked the boy . `` Dear heart , yes ; I found him dying in this room with the ink scarce dry on the letter he left for my lady . A mysterious business and a sad one . '' `` Tell me about it . I like sad stories , and I already feel as if I belonged to the family , a loyal retainer as in the old times . While you dust the books and I rub the mold off this old cover , tell me the tale , please , Mrs. Hester . ''
She shook her head , but yielded to the persuasive look and tone of the boy , telling the story more fully than she intended , for she loved talking and had come to regard XXXXX as her own , almost .
Cosmo Hester Paul book family gratitude left pass retainer sigh