“As to wishing, my dear Ladislaw, I have the highest opinion of your powers, you know. But about the Pioneer , I have been consulting a little with some of the men on our side, and they are inclined to take it into their hands⁠—indemnify me to a certain extent⁠—carry it on, in fact. And under the circumstances, you might like to give up⁠—might find a better field. These people might not take that high view of you which I have always taken, as an alter ego, a right hand⁠—though I always looked forward to your doing something else. I think of having a run into France. But I’ll write you any letters, you know⁠—to Althorpe and people of that kind. I’ve met Althorpe.”

“I am exceedingly obliged to you,” said Ladislaw, proudly. “Since you are going to part with the Pioneer , I need not trouble you about the steps I shall take. I may choose to continue here for the present.”