"Still, isn't it slightly egotistical?
There may be other men who could do what is necessary better." Alton laughed a little.

"You get right home every time," he said.
"I've been thinking the same thing, but, though I wanted to, I couldn't find the man, and there isn't much use in running away from the work that's set out for you." Alice Deringham understood him because she was a somewhat intellectual young woman, though she had, and possibly fortunately, but seldom been required to decide between inclination and duty in any affair of importance hitherto.

There was also something that touched her in the man's simple faithfulness.
"And you are going to do a good deal ?" she said.
"I don't know," said Alton gravely.

"I should like to.

You see, we want roads and mills, and an office down there in the city." "And," said the girl, "that means money." "Yes," said Alton.