The Mysterious Key And What It Opened - Chapter 3

In a week Paul was a favorite with the household; even prudent ¹ 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 ² life, with no playmates of her own age, such being the will of my lady; therefore she welcomed Paul as a new and delightful ³ 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 ⁴ of everyone., ,My lady showed unusual interest in the lad, and Lillian openly displayed her admiration ⁵ for his accomplishments ⁶ and her affection for her devoted ⁷ young servitor. Hester was much flattered by the confidence he reposed ⁸ 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: Paul 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. This sad story touched the woman's heart, and the boy's manly ⁹ spirit won respect. She had lost a son years ago, and her empty heart yearned ¹⁰ over the motherless lad. Ashamed to confess the tender feeling, she wore her usual severe manner to him in public, but in private softened ¹¹ wonderfully and enjoyed the boy's regard heartily ¹³., ,"Paul, come in. I want to speak with you a moment," said my lady, from the long window of the library to the boy who was training vines outside., , ,"Have no fears. You are to stay if you will, for Lillian is happy and I am satisfied with you.", ,"Thank you, my lady." And an odd glance of mingled ¹⁴ pride and pain shone in the boy's downcast eyes., ,You must school yourself to be modest and prudent.你要学会谦虚谨慎
。,I am rather fond of a solitary stroll in the country.我颇喜欢在乡间独自徜徉。