"I grant it, in the ordinary course of things in this life; but, General De Benyon, what claims have you as a parent upon me? A son in most cases is indebted to his parents for their care and attention in infancy--his education--his religious instruction--his choice of a profession, and his advancement in life, by their exertions and interest; and when they are called away, he has a reasonable expectation of their leaving him a portion of their substance. They have a heavy debt of gratitude to pay for what they have received, and they are further checked by the hopes of what they may hereafter receive. Up to this time, sir, I have not received the first, and this day I am told that I need not expect the last. Allow me to ask you, General De Benyon, upon what grounds you claim from me a filial duty? certainly not for benefits received, or for benefits in expectation; but I feel that I am intruding, and therefore, sir, once more, with every wish for your happiness, I take my leave." I went out, and had half closed the door after me, when the general cried out, "Stop--don't go--Japhet--my son--I was in a passion--I beg your pardon--don't mind what I said--I'm a passionate old fool." As he uttered this in broken sentences, I returned to him. He held out his hand. "Forgive me, boy--forgive your father." I knelt down and kissed his hand; he drew me towards him, and I wept upon his bosom. PART THREE, CHAPTER TWENTY ONE. FATHER STILL DUTIFULLY SUBMISSIVE AT HOME--ABROAD, I AM SPLITTING A STRAW IN ARGUMENTS WITH SUSANNAH ABOUT STRAW BONNETS--THE REST OF THE CHAPTER CONTAINS COQUETRY, COURTING, AND COSTUMES. It was some time before we were sufficiently composed to enter into conversation, and then I tried my utmost to please him. Still there was naturally a restraint on both sides, but I was so particular and devoted in my attentions, so careful of giving offence, that when he complained of weariness, and a wish to retire, he stipulated that I should be with him to breakfast on the next morning. I hastened to Mr Masterton, although it was late, to communicate to him all that had passed: he heard me with great interest. "Japhet," said he, "you have done well--it is the proudest day of your life. You have completely mastered him. The royal Bengal tiger is tamed. I wish you joy, my dear fellow. Now I trust that all will be well. But keep your own counsel; do not let this be known at Reading. Let them still imagine that your father is as passionate as ever, which he will be, by-the-by, with everybody else. You have still to follow up your success, and leave me to help you in other matters."