I understand this boy better than any of you, better than the mother who bore him, for I have given him the disposition which he bears.

I have had from my youth the same murderous rages: I have them yet.

I love my son, your Honor, and I would take him in my arms if I could, but he has too much of my own spirit.

He literally can not meet me as an affectionate son, for I sacrificed his good-will by harsh measures while he was yet a babe.

I make this confession in order that the Court may understand my relation to my son.
He was born with my own temper mingled with the poetic nature of his mother.