thought Lillian anxiously , as this painful impression increased with every scrutiny of the unconscious girl . So abashed was she that Hester 's call was unheard , and Hester was unseen as she came and stood beside her . Both looked a moment , and as they looked an old lady came from the house and led Helen in , still murmuring her monotonous song and moving her hands as if to catch and hold the sunshine . `` Poor dear , poor dear . No wonder Paul turns sad and wo n't talk of her , and that she do n't see anyone , '' sighed Hester pitifully . `` What is it ? I see , but do n't understand , '' whispered Lillian . `` She 's an innocent , deary , an idiot , though that 's a hard word for a pretty creature like her . '' `` 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 , XXXXX , '' he answered , in a tone that said many things .
Helen Hester Lillian Paul Poor affliction help house week wonder