Why do you ask ? '' `` Mere curiosity ; I know something of heraldry and often paint these things for my own pleasure . One learns odd amusements abroad , '' he added , seeing an expression of surprise on the woman 's face . `` You 'll have little time for such matters here . Come in and report yourself to the keeper , and if you 'll take my advice ask no questions of him , for you 'll get no answers . '' `` I seldom ask questions of men , as they are not fond of gossip . '' And the boy nodded with a smile of mischievous significance as he entered the keeper 's lodge . A sharp lad and a saucy , if he likes . I 'll keep my eye on him , for my lady takes no more thought of such things than a child , and Lillian cares for nothing but her own will . He has a taking way with him , though , and knows how to flatter . It 's well he does , poor lad , for life 's a hard matter to a friendless soul like him . As she thought these thoughts Hester went on to the house , leaving Paul to win the good graces of the keeper , which he speedily did by assuming an utterly different manner from that he had worn with the woman . That night , when the boy was alone in his own room , he wrote a long letter in Italian describing the events of the day , enclosed a sketch of the falcon and motto , directed it to `` Father Cosmo Carmela , Genoa , '' and lay down to sleep , muttering , with a grim look and a heavy sigh , `` So far so well ; I 'll not let my heart be softened by pity , or my purpose change till my promise is kept . Pretty child , I wish I had never seen her ! '' Chapter III SECRET SERVICE In a week Paul was a favorite with the household ; even prudent Hester felt the charm of his presence , and owned that Lillian was happier for a young companion in her walks . Hitherto the child had led a solitary life , with no playmates of her own age , such being the will of my lady ; therefore she welcomed Paul as a new and delightful amusement , considering him her private property and soon transferring his duties from the garden to the house . Satisfied of his merits , my lady yielded to Lillian 's demands , and Paul was installed as page to the young lady . Always respectful and obedient , he never forgot his place , yet seemed unconsciously to influence all who approached him , and win the goodwill of everyone . My lady showed unusual interest in the lad , and Lillian openly displayed her admiration for his accomplishments and her affection for her devoted young servitor . Hester was much flattered by the confidence he reposed in her , for to her alone did he tell his story , and of her alone asked advice and comfort in his various small straits .
It was as she suspected : XXXXX was a gentleman 's son , but misfortune had robbed him of home , friends , and parents , and thrown him upon the world to shift for himself .
Carmela Chapter Genoa Hester Italian Lillian Paul heraldry night servitor