You are surprised at my giving you this advice?
It is no merit on my part.

Until now you have refused your daughter's request; but if she comes again beseeching and crying, you who are so strong and can say so well 'I will,' will be weak and will not be able to refuse her her Prince.

Believe me; consent willingly.

Who knows?
Your son'-in-law may be grateful to you for it by-and-by." Madame Desvarennes had listened to Pierre with amazement.
"Really, you are incredible," she said; "you discuss all this so calmly.
Have you no grief ?" "Yes," replied Pierre, solemnly, "it is almost killing me." "Nonsense! You are boasting!" cried Madame Desvarennes, vehemently.

"Ah, scholar! figures have dried up your heart!" "No," replied the young man, with melancholy, "but work has destroyed in me the seductions of youth.