"Of course there is but one matter on which there can, probably, be any difference between us. If she should choose to write to Mr. Tregear, or to send him a message, or even to go to him, I could not prevent it."
"Go to him!" exclaimed the horrified Duke.
"I merely suggest such a thing in order to make you understand that I have absolutely no control over her."
"What control have I?"
"Nay; I cannot define that. You are her father, and she acknowledges your authority. She regards me as a friend—and as such treats me with the sweetest affection. Nothing can be more gratifying than her manner to me personally."
"It ought to be so."
"She has thoroughly won my heart. But still I know that if there were a difference between us she would not obey me. Why should she?"
"Because you hold my deputed authority."
"Oh, Duke, that goes for very little anywhere. No one can depute authority. It comes too much from personal accidents, and too little from reason or law to be handed over to others. Besides, I fear, that on one matter concerning her you and I are not agreed."
"I shall be sorry if it be so."