Jane hadn't talked to anyone, nor did anybody seem to take notice of her when she first arrived at Lowood Institution. The first student she mentions during her stay there, which doesn't happen for several days, is Helen Burns, who she quickly comes to admire. As a child, Jane loved reading books, so when she saw Helen reading during the girls' free time, Jane felt a connection with Helen and proceeded to bombard her with questions about the institution and Helen's life. These Q&A sessions happened a couple more times between Jane and Helen, and the two girls quickly became good friends. Helen helped Jane become more confident and self-loving; Jane provided Helen with happiness and hope when she was dying.
Helen cheers Jane up and provides her with much-needed comfort when Jane feels alone, telling her "If all the world hated you, and believed you wicked, while your own conscious approved you, and absolved you from guilt, you would not be without friends." Jane clearly takes this to heart and becomes much more independent of others' opinions, as she basically repeats the same words in chapter 27 to Mr. Rochester. Jane explains, "I never tired of Helen Burns, nor ever ceased to cherish for her a sentiment of attachment, as strong, tender, and respectful as any that ever animated my heart." Jane clearly feels loved by Helen, which is very important because it is the first real loving relationship Jane has. Helen helps Jane open up and realize that Jane is an enjoyable human being not subjected to the constant hate that she felt when she lived at Gateshead.
The friendship is not a one way street, however. Unfortunately, Jane and Helen's time together was cut short due to Helen being ill; yet Jane is there for Helen in this time of need. When Helen is on her death bed, Jane sneaks out to see her, desperate to talk with her dear friend again. With Jane lying next to Helen, Helen announces "How comfortable I am! The last fit of coughing has tired me a little; I feel as I could sleep; but don't leave me, Jane; I like to have you near me." This shows that Jane too provided comfort to Helen and both girls were very happy to be friends.
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