The joy she felt on seeing him again , the pride she took in him , the disgust Helen caused her , the relief she had not dared to own even to herself , when she fancied fate had put an insurmountable barrier between Paul and his cousin , the despair at finding it only a fancy , and the anguish of hearing him declare his unshaken purpose to marry his first love -- all these conflicting emotions had led to this hard moment , and now self-control deserted her in her need . In spite of her efforts the passionate tears would have their way , though Paul soothed her with assurances of entire forgiveness , promises of Helen 's friendship , and every gentle device he could imagine . She commanded herself at last by a strong effort , murmuring eagerly as she shrank from the hand that put back her fallen hair , and the face so full of tender sympathy bending over her : `` I am so grieved and ashamed at what I have said and done . I shall never dare to see Helen . Forgive me , and forget this folly . I 'm sad and heavyhearted just now ; it 's the anniversary of Papa 's death , and Mamma always suffers so much at such times that I get nervous . '' `` It is your birthday also . I remembered it , and ventured to bring a little token in return for the one you gave me long ago . This is a talisman , and tomorrow I will tell you the legend concerning it . Wear it for my sake , and God bless you , dear . '' The last words were whispered hurriedly ; Lillian saw the glitter of an antique ring , felt the touch of bearded lips on her hand , and Paul was gone . But as he left the house he set his teeth , exclaiming low to himself , `` Yes , tomorrow there shall be an end of this ! We must risk everything and abide the consequences now . I 'll have no more torment for any of us . '' Chapter VII THE SECRET KEY `` Is Lady Trevlyn at home , Bedford ? '' asked Paul , as he presented himself at an early hour next day , wearing the keen , stern expression which made him look ten years older than he was . `` No , sir , my lady and Miss Lillian went down to the Hall last night . '' `` No ill news , I hope ? '' And the young man 's eye kindled as if he felt a crisis at hand . `` Not that I heard , sir .
Miss XXXXX took one of her sudden whims and would have gone alone , if my lady had n't given in much against her will , this being a time when she is better away from the place . ''
Bedford Helen Lillian Trevlyn VII first left night talisman years