Besides, it is indispensable that I should go.

This wild son of mine has had a duel with some one in a shooting gallery--has been severely hit--and is very ill; but, at the same time, out of danger." "A duel! Good heavens! My lord, how did it happen." asked the baronet.
"I am not exactly aware of all the particulars; but I think they cannot be creditable to the parties, or to Dunroe, at least; for one of his friends has so far overshot the mark as to write to me, for my satisfaction, that they have succeeded in keeping the affair out of the papers.

Now, there must be something wrong when my son's friends are anxious to avoid publicity in the matter.

The conduct of that young man, my dear Sir Thomas, is a source of great affliction to me; and I tremble for the happiness of your daughter, should they be united." "You are too severe on Dunroe, my lord," replied the baronet--"It is better for a man to sow his wild oats in season than out of season.
Besides, you know the proverb, 'A reformed rake,' etc." "The popularity of a proverb, my good friend, is no proof of its truth; and, besides, I should wish to place a hope of my son's reformation upon something firmer and more solid than the strength of an old adage." "But you know, my lord," replied the other, "that the instances of post-matrimonial reformation, if I may use the word, from youthful folly, are sufficient to justify the proverb.

I am quite certain, that, if Lord Dunroe were united to a virtuous and sensible wife, he would settle down into the character of a steady, honorable, and independent man.