He sighed with relief as he dismissed his poor little audience for the last time.

For the future he had made no promises, beyond saying that in his library-building there were two rooms which were to be devoted to lectures.

The library itself was now his chief care.

This was something solid; it would re-establish him in his self-confidence.
Yes; 'Thoughts for the Present' had been a failure.
The first lecture was far away the best.

It dealt with Religion.
Addressed to an audience ready for such philosophical views, it would have met with a flattering reception.