I tremble because of your inexperience and his weakness, which may prove a source of trouble to you." "If he is weak, all the better; my will can guide him." "You are wrong," replied her father, "as many other women have been before you.

You believe that weak and vacillating dispositions are easily controlled, but I tell you that this is an error.

Only determined characters can be influenced, and it is on substantial foundations that we find support." Flavia made no reply, and her father drew her closer to him.
"Listen to me, my child," said he.

"You will never have a better friend than I am.

You know that I would shed every drop of blood in my veins for you.