The boy 's arm stole around the little figure in the saddle , and a beautiful bright smile broke over his face as he answered warmly , `` I do believe it , dear , and it makes me happy to hear you say so . Do n't be afraid , I 'm your equal , but I 'll not forget that you are my little mistress till I can change from groom to gentleman . '' He added the last sentence as he withdrew his arm , for Lillian had shrunk a little and blushed with surprise , not anger , at this first breach of respect on the part of her companion . Both were silent for a moment , Paul looking down and Lillian busy with her nosegay . She spoke first , assuming an air of satisfaction as she surveyed her work . `` That will please Mamma , I 'm sure , and make her quite forget my naughty prank of yesterday . Do you know I offended her dreadfully by peeping into the gold case she wears on her neck ? She was asleep and I was sitting by her . In her sleep she pulled it out and said something about a letter and Papa . I wanted to see Papa 's face , for I never did , because the big picture of him is gone from the gallery where the others are , so I peeped into the case when she let it drop and was so disappointed to find nothing but a key . '' `` A key ! What sort of a key ? '' cried Paul in an eager tone . `` Oh , a little silver one like the key of my piano , or the black cabinet . She woke and was very angry to find me meddling . '' `` What did it belong to ? '' asked Paul . `` Her treasure box , she said , but I do n't know where or what that is , and I dare not ask any more , for she forbade my speaking to her about it . Poor Mamma ! I 'm always troubling her in some way or other . ''
With a penitent sigh , XXXXX tied up her flowers and handed them to Paul to carry .
Lillian Mamma Paul first letter nosegay others sleep something tone