If "my lord" had spoken, the matter was settled.

Even Lady Helena knew that any attempt to influence him was vain.

Ronald, on the contrary, could be stubborn, but not firm.
He was more easily influenced; appeal to the better part of his nature, to his affection or sense of duty, was seldom made in vain.
No other children gladdened the Lord Earle's heart, and all his hopes were centered in his son.

For the second time in his life great hopes and ambitions rose within him.

What he had not achieved his son would do; the honor he could no longer seek might one day be his son's.
There was something almost pitiful in the love of the stern, disappointed man for his child.