Smash a vase." And a vase she did smash; whereupon her father kissed her with enthusiasm.
This method of education assumed a graver character as the child grew older.

Her father's affection became shaded with a species of gallantry.
He took her with him to the Bois, to the races, to the theater.

She had not a fancy that he did not anticipate and gratify.

At thirteen years of age, she had her horse, her groom, and a carriage bearing her monogram.
Already ill, and having perhaps a presentiment of his death, the unfortunate man overwhelmed that beloved daughter with the tokens of his baleful affection.

He was thus blunting all her tastes by too precocious satiety, as if he had intended to leave her no taste save for the forbidden fruit.
Julia wept over him with furious transports, and preserved for his memory a fervid worship.