Mr.Howland was generally in earnest when he decided a matter, and but little given to change his purposes.

And he was in earnest now.

But the moment his intention was announced to his wife, there came from her an unexpected and vigorous opposition.
"No, Andrew," said she, with an emphasis unusual to her in addressing her husband, "that must not be." "I tell you it must be, Esther," quickly replied Mr.Howland.
"Nothing else will save the boy." "It lacks only that to complete his ruin," said Mrs.Howland, firmly.

"Never, Andrew--never will he go on board of a vessel with my consent." And the mother burst into tears.
"I don't wish to have any contention about this matter, Esther," said Mr.Howland, gravely, as soon as his wife had grown calm, "and I don't mean to have any.

But I wish you to understand that I am in earnest.