But you cannot tell--no man whose heart is not seared with many years can tell or can appreciate, the motives that have formed my character.

You, however,"-- and his voice softened as he laid his hand on his son's head, "you, however,--the gay, the bold, the young,--should not have your brow crossed and your eye dimmed by the cares that surround me.

Go! I will accompany you to town; I will see Saville myself.

If he be one with whom my son can, at so tender an age, be safely trusted, you shall pay him the visit you wish." Percy would have replied but his father checked him; and before the end of the evening, the father had resolved to forget as much as he pleased of the conversation.
The elder Godolphin was one of those characters on whom it is vain to attempt making a permanent impression.

The habits of his mind were durably formed: like waters, they yielded to any sudden intrusion, but closed instantly again.