`` It is folly to try to win the hero , for he is already won , you know , '' answered Lillian , shutting the cover on the pictured Helen with a sudden motion as if glad to extinguish her . `` Oh dear , no ; Mrs. Langdon just told Mamma that she was mistaken about their being engaged ; for she asked him and he shook his head , saying Helen was his ward . '' `` But that is absurd , for he 's only a boy himself . It 's very odd , is n't it ? Never mind , I shall soon know all about it . '' `` How ? '' cried Maud , amazed at Lillian 's assured manner . `` Wait a day or two and , I 'll tell you a romance in return for yours . Your mother beckons to me , so I know Hester has come . Good night . I 've had a charming time . '' And with this tantalizing adieu , Lillian slipped away . Hester was waiting in the carriage , but as Lillian appeared , Talbot put aside the footman and handed her in , saying very low , in the well-remembered tone : `` Good night , my little mistress . '' Chapter VI FAIR HELEN To no one but her mother and Hester did Lillian confide the discovery she had made . None of the former servants but old Bedford remained with them , and till Paul chose to renew the old friendship it was best to remain silent . Great was the surprise and delight of our lady and Hester at the good fortune of their protege , and many the conjectures as to how he would explain his hasty flight . `` You will go and see him , wo n't you , Mamma , or at least inquire about him ? '' said Lillian , eager to assure the wanderer of a welcome , for those few words of his had satisfied her entirely . `` No , dear , it is for him to seek us , and till he does , I shall make no sign . He knows where we are , and if he chooses he can renew the acquaintance so strangely broken off .
Be patient , and above all things remember , XXXXX , that you are no longer a child , '' replied my lady , rather disturbed by her daughter 's enthusiastic praises of Paul .
Bedford Helen Hester Langdon Lillian Mamma Maud Paul Talbot day