`` Because he does not love me , Mamma . '' And the poor girl hid her burning cheeks in her hands , as if overwhelmed with maidenly shame at the implied confession of her own affection . `` My child , how is this ? I can not but be glad that he does not love you ; yet it fills me with grief to see that this pains you . He is not a mate for you , Lillian . Remember this , and forget the transient regard that has sprung up from that early intimacy of yours . '' `` He is wellborn , and now my equal in fortune , and oh , so much my superior in all gifts of mind and heart , '' sighed the girl , still with hidden face , for tears were dropping through her slender fingers . `` It may be , but there is a mystery about him ; and I have a vague dislike to him in spite of all that has passed . But , darling , are you sure he does not care for you ? I fancied I read a different story in his face , and when you begged to leave town so suddenly , I believed that you had seen this also , and kindly wished to spare him any pain . '' `` It was to spare myself . Oh , Mamma , he loves Helen , and will marry her although she is blind . He told me this , with a look I could not doubt , and so I came away to hide my sorrow , '' sobbed poor Lillian in despair . Lady Trevlyn went to her and , laying the bright head on her motherly bosom , said soothingly as she caressed it , `` My little girl , it is too soon for you to know these troubles , and I am punished for yielding to your entreaties for a peep at the gay world . It is now too late to spare you this ; you have had your wish and must pay its price , dear . But , Lillian , call pride to aid you , and conquer this fruitless love . It can not be very deep as yet , for you have known Paul , the man , too short a time to be hopelessly enamored . Remember , there are others , better , braver , more worthy of you ; that life is long , and full of pleasure yet untried . '' `` Have no fears for me , Mamma . I 'll not disgrace you or myself by any sentimental folly .
I do love XXXXX , but I can conquer it , and I will .
Helen Lillian Mamma Paul Trevlyn entreaties fears girl love troubles