`` How terrible ! Come away , Hester , and never breathe to anyone what we have seen . '' And with a shudder and sense of pain and pity lying heavy at her heart , she hurried away , feeling doubly guilty in the discovery of this affliction . The thought of it haunted her continually ; the memory of the lonely girl gave her no peace ; and a consciousness of deceit burdened her unspeakably , especially in Paul 's presence . This lasted for a week , then Lillian resolved to confess , hoping that when he found she knew the truth he would let her share his cross and help to lighten it . Waiting her opportunity , she seized a moment when her mother was absent , and with her usual frankness spoke out impetuously . `` Paul , I 've done wrong , and I can have no peace till I am pardoned . I have seen Helen . '' `` Where , when , and how ? '' he asked , looking disturbed and yet relieved . She told him rapidly , and as she ended she looked up at him with her sweet face , so full of pity , shame , and grief it would have been impossible to deny her anything . `` Can you forgive me for discovering this affliction ? '' `` I think I could forgive you a far greater fault , Lillian , '' he answered , in a tone that said many things . `` But deceit is so mean , so dishonorable and contemptible , how can you so easily pardon it in me ? '' she asked , quite overcome by this forgiveness , granted without any reproach . `` Then you would find it hard to pardon such a thing in another ? '' he said , with the expression that always puzzled her . `` Yes , it would be hard ; but in those I loved , I could forgive much for love 's sake . '' With a sudden gesture he took her hand saying , impulsively , `` How little changed you are ! Do you remember that last ride of ours nearly five years ago ? ''
`` Yes , XXXXX , '' she answered , with averted eyes .
Helen Hester Lillian Paul affliction anyone help love pardon week