You hear my
final resolve; I shall never change it--no after repentance, no
entreaties, will move me. Choose between your parents, your home,
your position, and the love of this fair, foolish girl, of whom
in a few months you will be tired and weary. Choose between us.
I ask for no promises; you have refused to give it. I appeal no
more to your affection; I leave you to decide for yourself. I
might coerce and force you, but I will not do so. Obey me, and I
will make your happiness my study. Defy me, and marry the girl
then, in life, I will never look upon your face again.
Henceforth, I will have no son; you will not be worthy of the
name. There is no appeal. I leave you now to make your choice;
this is my final resolve."
Chapter II
The Earles, of Earlescourt, were one of the oldest families in
England. The "Barony of Earle" is mentioned in the early reigns
of the Tudor kings. They never appeared to have taken any great
part either in politics or warfare. The annals of the family
told of simple, virtuous lives; they contained, too, some few
romantic incidents. Some of the older barons had been brave
soldiers; and there were stories of hair-breadth escapes and
great exploits by flood and field.
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