`` How do you know what I am ? '' he asked quickly . `` I heard Hester tell the housekeeper that you were not what you seemed , and one day she hoped you 'd get your right place again . I asked Mamma about it , and she said she would not let me be with you so much if you were not a fit companion for me . I was not to speak of it , but she means to be your friend and help you by-and-by . '' `` Does she ? '' And the boy laughed an odd , short laugh that jarred on Lillian 's ear and made her say reprovingly , `` You are proud , I know , but you 'll let us help you because we like to do it , and I have no brother to share my money with . '' `` Would you like one , or a sister ? '' asked Paul , looking straight into her face with his piercing eyes . `` Yes , indeed ! I long for someone to be with me and love me , as Mamma ca n't . '' `` Would you be willing to share everything with another person -- perhaps have to give them a great many things you like and now have all to yourself ? '' `` I think I should . I 'm selfish , I know , because everyone pets and spoils me , but if I loved a person dearly I 'd give up anything to them . Indeed I would , Paul , pray believe me . '' She spoke earnestly , and leaned on his shoulder as if to enforce her words . The boy 's arm stole around the little figure in the saddle , and a beautiful bright smile broke over his face as he answered warmly , `` I do believe it , dear , and it makes me happy to hear you say so . Do n't be afraid , I 'm your equal , but I 'll not forget that you are my little mistress till I can change from groom to gentleman . '' He added the last sentence as he withdrew his arm , for Lillian had shrunk a little and blushed with surprise , not anger , at this first breach of respect on the part of her companion . Both were silent for a moment , Paul looking down and Lillian busy with her nosegay .
She spoke XXXXX , assuming an air of satisfaction as she surveyed her work .
Hester Lillian Mamma Paul day everything first laugh nosegay right