The very foundation of my house of hopes was sapped; at a blow all my schemes for the swift aggrandisement of my family were laid low.

It was too much for me.

Instead of accepting the inevitable, and being glad to accept it because my child's happiness was involved, I rebelled and kicked against the pricks.
By nature I am not a violent man, but on that occasion I lost my temper and became violent.

I refused my consent; I threatened to cut my daughter off with nothing, but at this argument she and her lover smiled.

Then I took another ground, for, remembering her promise that she would consent to be separated for three years from any suitor of whom I did not approve, I claimed its fulfilment.
Somewhat to my surprise, after a hurried private consultation, Jane and her lover accepted these conditions, telling me frankly that they would wait for three years, but that after these had gone by they would consider themselves at liberty to marry, with my consent if possible, but, if necessary, without it.