The two of my boys who showed most love for me, Edward and Robert, died young.

The eldest and youngest were a constant trouble to me.

Michael was quick-tempered and self-willed, like myself; I took the wrong way with him, just like I had with his mother, and there was no peace till he left home.

Joseph was still harder to deal with; but he's the only one left alive, and there is no need to bring up things against him.

With him I wasn't to blame, unless I treated him too kindly and spoilt him.
He was my favourite, was Jo, and he repaid me cruelly.