He did doubt his ability to fill that place which it would now be his duty to occupy.

He more than doubted.

He told himself again and again that there was wanting to him a certain noble capacity for commanding support and homage from other men.

With things and facts he could deal, but human beings had not opened themselves to him.

But now it was too late! and yet,--as he said to his wife,--to fail would break his heart! No ambition had prompted him.