She greatly disliked the strictness of Jonas, but if, as he said, the slaves would not obey him without this strictness, he must do as he thought best.
"I think I spoke too hastily, mother," Vincent said as he entered; "and I am sure that you would not wish the slaves to be ill-treated more than I should.

I dare say Jonas means for the best." "I feel sure that he does, Vincent.

A man in his position cannot make himself obeyed like a master.

I wish it could be otherwise, and I will speak to him on the subject; but it will not do to interfere with him too much.

A good overseer is not easy to get, and the slaves are always ready to take advantage of leniency.