'I hoped to surround myself with a few friends who would gradually get to know my views, and perhaps think they were worth something.

I have obeyed an impulse in opening my mind to you; I feel that you think with me.

Will you join me as a friend, and work on with me for the founding of such a society as I have described ?' 'I will, Mr.Egremont,' was the clear-voiced answer.
Walter put forth his hand, and it was grasped firmly.

In this moment he was equal to his ambition, unwavering, exalted, the pure idealist.
Grail, too, forgot his private troubles, and tasted the strong air of the heights which it is granted us so seldom and for so brief a season to tread.

There was almost colour in his cheeks, and his deep-set eyes had a light as of dawn.
'We have much yet to talk of,' said Egremont, as he rose, 'but it gets late and I mustn't keep you longer.