My conjectures as to the course she would pursue with regard to me had not been erroneous.

My father's deportment, in a short time, grew sullen and austere.

Directions were given in a magisterial tone, and any remissness in the execution of his orders was rebuked with an air of authority.

At length these rebukes were followed by certain intimations that I was now old enough to provide for myself; that it was time to think of some employment by which I might secure a livelihood; that it was a shame for me to spend my youth in idleness; that what he had gained was by his own labour; and I must be indebted for my living to the same source.
These hints were easily understood.

At first, they excited indignation and grief.