Nor as a father am I obliged to give my reasons.
But since you are leaving us, and I would not dismiss you harshly, let me say that I have studied this man for whom you avow a fondness; and apart from his calling--which I detest--I find him vain, foppish, insincere.

He has _levitas_ with _levitas_: I believe his heart to be as shallow as his head.

I know him to be no fit mate for one of my daughters; least of all for you who have gifts above your sisters--gifts which I have recognised and tried to improve.
Child, summon your pride to you, and let it help your obedience." He broke off and gazed out of the window.

"If," said he more softly, "our fate be not offered to us, we must make it.

If, while our true fate delays, there come to us unworthy phantoms simulating it, we should test them; lest impatient we run to embrace vanity, and betray, not our hopes alone, but the purpose God had in mind for us from the beginning." Hetty looked up.