Besides, six years of military service will put some lead into his head; and as he has only his last legal examination to pass, it won't be much ill-luck for him if he doesn't become a lawyer till he is twenty-six; that is, if he wants to continue in the law after paying, as they say, his tax of blood.

By that time, at any rate, he will have been severely punished, he will have learned experience, and contracted habits of subordination.

Before making his probation at the bar he will have gone through his probations in life." "If that is your decision for a son," said Madame Clapart, "I see that the heart of a father is not like that of a mother.

My poor Oscar a common soldier!--" "Would you rather he flung himself headforemost into the Seine after committing a dishonorable action?
He cannot now become a solicitor; do you think him steady and wise enough to be a barrister?
No.

While his reason is maturing, what will he become?
A dissipated fellow.