An incredible stubbornness has possibly spoilt his whole life.

In a congenial pursuit he might by this time have attained to something noteworthy.

It's too late now, I fear.' Rhoda meditated.
'Does he aim at nothing whatever ?' 'He won't admit any ambition.

He has no society.

His friends are nearly all obscure people, like those you heard him speak of this evening.' 'After all, what ambition should he have ?' said Rhoda, with a laugh.
'There's one advantage in being a woman.