Now I suppose, Ned, that the idea which you have in your mind in deciding to give up the profession you have chosen, is that you may remain as their champion and protector here." "Yes, sir," Ned said.

"Father told me to be kind to mother, whatever happened." "Quite so, my boy; but the question is, Are you being kind ?" Ned looked surprised.
"That you intend to be so, Ned, I am sure.

The question is, Are you going the right way to work?
Is this championship that you have taken upon yourself increasing her happiness, or is it not ?" Ned was silent.
"I do not think that it is, Ned.

Your mother must be really fond of this man or she would not have married him.

Do you think that it conduces to the comfort of her home to see the constant antagonism which prevails between you and him?
Is it not the fact that this ill temper under which she suffers is the result of the irritation caused to him by your attitude?
Do you not add to her burden rather than relieve it ?" Ned was still silent.