He was averse to parting with me; declaring, the only solace he had was in directing my education, and being assured of my happiness.
"My governess was an accomplished and amiable lady, but she was too kind and yielding.

I have always retained the most grateful remembrance of her care.

Thus, though surrounded by good influences, I needed restraint, where there was so much indulgence.

I have sometimes ventured to excuse myself on the ground that I was not taught that most necessary of all lessons: the power of governing myself.

The giving up of my own will to the matured judgment of others.
"The part of my life that I wish to bring before you now, is the year previous to my marriage.