`` 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 Talbot took up the song and carried her safely through it with his well-tuned voice . `` You know the air then ? '' she said in a low tone , as a hum of commendation followed the music . `` All Italians sing it , though few do it like yourself , '' he answered quietly , restoring the fan he had held while standing beside her . Provoking boy ! why wo n't he know me ?
thought XXXXX .
Edith Italians Lillian Maud Talbot Trevlyn friend instrument surprise tone