`` Mr. Talbot hardly needs an introduction here , for his name is well-known among us , though this is perhaps his first visit to England ? '' she said , flattering herself that this artful speech would entrap him into the reply she wanted . With a slight frown , as if the allusion to his adventure rather annoyed him , and a smile that puzzled all but Lillian , he answered very simply , `` It is not my first visit to this hospitable island . I was here a few years ago , for a short time , and left with regret . '' `` Then you have old friends here ? '' And Lillian watched him as she spoke . `` I had . They had doubtless forgotten me now , '' he said , with a sudden shadow marring the tranquillity of his face . `` Why doubt them ? If they were true friends , they will not forget . '' The words were uttered impulsively , almost warmly , but Talbot made no response , except a polite inclination and an abrupt change in the conversation . `` That remains to be proved . Do you sing , Miss Trevlyn ? '' `` A little . '' And Lillian 's tone was both cold and proud . `` A great deal , and very charmingly , '' added Maud , who took pride in her friend 's gifts both of voice and beauty . `` Come , dear , there are so few of us you will sing , I know . Mamma desired me to ask you when Edith had done . '' To her surprise Lillian complied , and allowed Talbot to lead her to the instrument . Still hoping to win some sign of recognition from him , the girl chose an air he taught her and sang it with a spirit and skill that surprised the listeners who possessed no key to her mood .
At the last verse her voice suddenly faltered , but XXXXX took up the song and carried her safely through it with his well-tuned voice .
Edith England Lillian Maud Talbot Trevlyn first left visit years