I must give you something , Paul , because I like you very much , and you are always doing kind things for me . What shall it be ? '' And the child held out her hand with a cordial look and gesture that touched the boy . With one of the foreign fashions which sometimes appeared when he forgot himself , he kissed the small hand , saying impulsively , `` My dear little mistress , I want nothing but your goodwill -- and your forgiveness , '' he added , under his breath . `` You have that already , Paul , and I shall find something to add to it . But what is that ? '' And she laid hold of a little locket which had slipped into sight as Paul bent forward in his salute . He thrust it back , coloring so deeply that the child observed it , and exclaimed , with a mischievous laugh , `` It is your sweetheart , Paul . I heard Bessy , my maid , tell Hester she was sure you had one because you took no notice of them . Let me see it . Is she pretty ? '' `` Very pretty , '' answered the boy , without showing the picture . `` Do you like her very much ? '' questioned Lillian , getting interested in the little romance . `` Very much , '' and Paul 's black eyelashes fell . `` Would you die for her , as they say in the old songs ? '' asked the girl , melodramatically . `` Yes , Miss Lillian , or live for her , which is harder . '' `` Dear me , how very nice it must be to have anyone care for one so much , '' said the child innocently . `` I wonder if anybody ever will for me ? '' ''
Love comes to all soon or late , And maketh gay or sad ; For every bird will find its mate , And every lass a lad , '' sang Paul , quoting one of Hester 's songs , and looking relieved that XXXXX 's thoughts had strayed from him .
Bessy Hester Lillian Paul girl laugh locket maid romance sight