I think you and Helen will yet meet , Miss Trevlyn . '' As he spoke , Mrs. Langdon beckoned , and he left her pondering over his last words , and conscious of a secret satisfaction in his implied promise that she should see his betrothed . `` How do you like him ? '' whispered Maud , slipping into the empty chair . `` Very well , '' was the composed reply ; for Lillian enjoyed her little mystery too much to spoil it yet . `` What did you say to him ? I longed to hear , for you seemed to enjoy yourselves very much , but I did n't like to be a marplot . '' Lillian repeated a part of the conversation , and Maud professed to be consumed with jealousy at the impression her friend had evidently made . `` It is folly to try to win the hero , for he is already won , you know , '' answered Lillian , shutting the cover on the pictured Helen with a sudden motion as if glad to extinguish her . `` Oh dear , no ; Mrs. Langdon just told Mamma that she was mistaken about their being engaged ; for she asked him and he shook his head , saying Helen was his ward . '' `` But that is absurd , for he 's only a boy himself . It 's very odd , is n't it ? Never mind , I shall soon know all about it . '' `` How ? '' cried Maud , amazed at Lillian 's assured manner . `` Wait a day or two and , I 'll tell you a romance in return for yours . Your mother beckons to me , so I know Hester has come . Good night . I 've had a charming time . '' And with this tantalizing adieu , Lillian slipped away .
Hester was waiting in the carriage , but as XXXXX appeared , Talbot put aside the footman and handed her in , saying very low , in the well-remembered tone : `` Good night , my little mistress . ''
Helen Hester Langdon Lillian Mamma Maud Trevlyn day left marplot