I always bring it up when anyone begins to lecture and it works wonders.

Uncle Mac turns pale, the aunts hold up their hands in holy horror, and a general panic ensues.

Then I magnanimously promise not to disgrace the family and in the first burst of gratitude the dear souls agree to everything I ask, so peace is restored and I go on my way rejoicing." "Just the way you used to threaten to run off to sea if your mother objected to any of your whims.

You are not changed in that respect, though you are in others.

You had great plans and projects once, Charlie, and now you seem to be contented with being a 'jack of all trades and master of none'".
"Boyish nonsense! Time has brought wisdom, and I don't see the sense of tying myself down to one particular thing and grinding away at it year after year.