I don't mind your knowing for you seem almost like a mother, and I thank you for it with all my heart." He held out his hand with the look that was irresistible to Hester.
Remembering only that he was a motherless boy, she stroked the curly hair off his forehead, and kissed him, with the thought of her own son warm at her heart.
"Good night, dear.

I'll say nothing, but give you something that will ensure quiet sleep hereafter." With that she left him, but would have been annoyed could she have seen the convulsion of boyish merriment which took possession of him when alone, for he laughed till the tears ran down his cheeks..