Let me see that you are capable of executing as well as planning a high resolve finely." Arthur's behaviour on receiving this letter was very characteristic.
He did not answer it.
It was a habit he had which got him into considerable odium with people.

Whenever a letter entailed making up his mind--an invitation which had two sides to it--a decision--a request for advice or immediate action--these rarely extorted an answer from him.

"It did not seem to me to be very important," he used to say.

Neither would he be dictated to.

A friend who had asked him to form one of a football eleven, receiving no reply, inclosed two post-cards addressed to himself, on one of which was written "Yes," and on the other "No." Arthur posted them both.
But a casual letter, implying friendliness, a statement of mental or moral difficulties, criticisms on an interesting book, requests involving principles, drew out immediate, full, and interesting replies, of apparently almost unnecessary urgency and affection.