`` Perhaps . '' `` You look as if there was no ` perhaps ' about it , '' said the child , quick to read the kindling of the eye and the change in the voice that accompanied the boy 's reply . `` She is very young and I must wait , and while I wait many things may happen to part us . '' `` Is she a lady ? '' `` Yes , a wellborn , lovely little lady , and I 'll marry her if I live . '' Paul spoke with a look of decision , and a proud lift of the head that contrasted curiously with the badge of servitude he wore . Lillian felt this , and asked , with a sudden shyness coming over her , `` But you are a gentleman , and so no one will mind even if you are not rich . '' `` How do you know what I am ? '' he asked quickly . `` I heard Hester tell the housekeeper that you were not what you seemed , and one day she hoped you 'd get your right place again . I asked Mamma about it , and she said she would not let me be with you so much if you were not a fit companion for me . I was not to speak of it , but she means to be your friend and help you by-and-by . '' `` Does she ? '' And the boy laughed an odd , short laugh that jarred on Lillian 's ear and made her say reprovingly , `` You are proud , I know , but you 'll let us help you because we like to do it , and I have no brother to share my money with . '' `` Would you like one , or a sister ? '' asked Paul , looking straight into her face with his piercing eyes . `` Yes , indeed ! I long for someone to be with me and love me , as Mamma ca n't . '' `` Would you be willing to share everything with another person -- perhaps have to give them a great many things you like and now have all to yourself ? '' `` I think I should .
I 'm selfish , I know , because everyone pets and spoils me , but if I loved a person dearly I 'd XXXXX up anything to them .
felt give look looking marry mind read said share speak