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 , Lillian , that you are no longer a child , '' replied my lady , rather disturbed by her daughter 's enthusiastic praises of Paul . `` I wish I was , for then I might act as I feel , and not be afraid of shocking the proprieties . '' And Lillian went to bed to dream of her hero . For three days she stayed at home , expecting Paul , but he did not come , and she went out for her usual ride in the Park , hoping to meet him . An elderly groom now rode behind her , and she surveyed him with extreme disgust , as she remembered the handsome lad who had once filled that place . Nowhere did Paul appear , but in the Ladies ' Mile she passed an elegant brougham in which sat a very lovely girl and a mild old lady . `` That is Talbot 's fiancee , '' said Maud Churchill , who had joined her . `` Is n't she beautiful ? '' `` Not at all -- yes , very , '' was Lillian 's somewhat peculiar reply , for jealousy and truth had a conflict just then . `` He 's so perfectly absorbed and devoted that I am sure that story is true , so adieu to our hopes , '' laughed Maud . `` Did you have any ? Good-bye , I must go . '' And Lillian rode home at a pace which caused the stout groom great distress . `` Mamma , I 've seen Paul 's betrothed ! '' she cried , running into her mother 's boudoir . `` And I have seen Paul himself , '' replied my lady , with a warning look , for there he stood , with half-extended hand , as if waiting to be acknowledged . Lillian forgot her embarrassment in her pleasure , and made him an elaborate curtsy , saying , with a half-merry , half-reproachful glance , `` Mr. Talbot is welcome in whatever guise he appears . '' `` I choose to appear as Paul , then , and offer you a seat , Miss Lillian , '' he said , assuming as much of his boyish manner as he could . Lillian took it and tried to feel at ease , but the difference between the lad she remembered and the man she now saw was too great to be forgotten .
`` Now tell us your adventures , and why you vanished away so mysteriously four years ago , '' she XXXXX , with a touch of the childish imperiousness in her voice , though her frank eyes fell before his .
Be appear broken devoted joined knows rode said stayed stood