But it’s also true to say That some men think differently about these things, And as your son, my most useful function, It seems to me, is to keep you in touch With what other people are thinking, What they say, and do, and approve or disapprove of, And sometimes what they leave unsaid. The prospect of your disapproval is a great Silencer of most men’s tongues, and some things Are never said, for fear of the consequences. But I can sometimes hear what people whisper Behind their hands: and everywhere, I hear sympathy Expressed for this unfortunate girl,
