Of those who really love ...

Of those who really love their sons, few know how to do it. Some spoil them when they are young, and then quarrel with them when they are grown up, for having been spoiled; some love them like mothers, and attend only to the bodily health and strength of the hopes of their family, solemnize his birthday, and rejoice, like the subjects of the Great Mogul, at the increase of his bulk: while others, minding, as they think, only essentials, take pains and pleasure to see in their heir, all their favourite weaknesses and imperfections.
 Lord Chesterfield

Quotes from the same author

Every man is to be had one way or another and every woman almost anyway.
 Lord Chesterfield
An ignorant man is insignificant and contemptible; nobody cares for his company, and he can just be said to live, and that is all.
 Lord Chesterfield
A man must have a good share of wit himself to endure a great share in another.
 Lord Chesterfield
Indifference is commonly the mother of discretion.
 Lord Chesterfield
Being pretty on the inside means you don't hit your brother and you eat all your peas - that's what my grandma taught me.
 Lord Chesterfield