`` It does , but not in the way you fancy , my lady . Whatever Helen may be , she is not my fiancee yet , Miss Lillian . '' And the shadow lifted as he laughed , looking at the young lady , who was decidedly abashed , in spite of a sense of relief caused by his words . `` I merely accepted the world 's report , '' she said , affecting a nonchalant air . `` The world is a liar , as you will find in time '' was his abrupt reply . `` I hope to see this beautiful cousin , Paul . Will she receive us as old friends of yours ? '' `` Thanks , not yet , my lady . She is still too much a stranger here to enjoy new faces , even kind ones . I have promised perfect rest and freedom for a time , but you shall be the first whom she receives . '' Again Lillian detected the secret disquiet which possessed him , and her curiosity was roused . It piqued her that this Helen felt no desire to meet her and chose to seclude herself , as if regardless of the interest and admiration she excited . `` I will see her in spite of her refusal , for I only caught a glimpse in the Park . Something is wrong , and I 'll discover it , for it evidently worries Paul , and perhaps I can help him . '' As this purpose sprang up in the warm but willful heart of the girl , she regained her spirits and was her most charming self while the young man stayed . They talked of many things in a pleasant , confidential manner , though when Lillian recalled that hour , she was surprised to find how little Paul had really told them of his past life or future plans . It was agreed among them to say nothing of their former relations , except to old Bedford , who was discretion itself , but to appear to the world as new-made friends -- thus avoiding unpleasant and unnecessary explanations which would only excite gossip . My lady asked him to dine , but he had business out of town and declined , taking his leave with a lingering look , which made Lillian steal away to study her face in the mirror and wonder if she looked her best , for in Paul 's eyes she had read undisguised admiration . Lady Trevlyn went to her room to rest , leaving the girl free to ride , drive , or amuse herself as she liked . As if fearing her courage would fail if she delayed , Lillian ordered the carriage , and , bidding Hester mount guard over her , she drove away to St. John 's Wood .
`` Now , XXXXX , do n't lecture or be prim when I tell you that we are going on a frolic , '' she began , after getting the old woman into an amiable mood by every winning wile she could devise .
Helen Hester John Lillian Paul Trevlyn Wood fiancee first hour