I was born here, and every dearest memory of my life connects
itself with the, valley as it used to be. It was one of the
loveliest spots to be found in England. You can have no idea of the
feelings with which I saw this change fall upon it, this desolation
and defilement--I must use the words which come to me. I might have
overcome that grief if I had sympathised with the ends. But, as it
is, I should act in the same way even if I had no such memories. I
know all that you will urge. It may be inevitable that the green and
beautiful spots of the world shall give place to furnaces and
mechanics' dwellings. For my own part, in this little corner, at all
events, the rum shall be delayed. In this matter I will give my
instincts free play. Of New Wanley not one brick shall remain on
another. I will close the mines, and grass shall again grow over
them; I will replant the orchards and mark out the fields as they
were before.'
He paused again.
'You see why I cannot do what you ask.'
It was said in a gentler voice, for insensibly his tone had become
almost vehement.
He found a strange pleasure in emphasising his opposition to her.
Perhaps he secretly knew that Adela hung upon his words, and in
spite of herself was drawn into the current of his enthusiasm. But
he did not look into her face.
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