He was conscious of an acute self-condemnation, and yet, struggling through his slow-moving mind there was a feeling that in some sense he could not define, there was justification for what he had done.
"It is not often that Thomas has grieved you," ventured the mother, timidly, for, with all her courage, she feared her husband when he was in this mood.
"Woman, be silent!" blazed forth the old man, as if he had been waiting for her words.

"It is not for you to excuse his wickedness.

You are too fond of that work, and your children are reaping the fruits of it." Billy Jack looked up quickly as if to answer, but his mother turned her face full upon him and commanded him with steady eyes, giving, herself, no sign of emotion except for a slight tightening of the lips and a touch of color in her face.
"Your children have well learned their lesson of rebellion and deceit," continued her husband, allowing his passion a free rein.

"But I vow unto the Lord I will put an end to it now, whatever.

And I will give you to remember, sir," turning to Thomas, "to the end of your days, this occasion.