In face of such arguments I had to withdraw my opposition; otherwise it might have appeared that I was actuated by petty personal motives.

God knows I only desired to save Boyce from undergoing a difficult ordeal.

For the same reasons I could not refuse to serve on the Reception Committee which was immediately formed under the chairmanship of the Mayor.
Preliminaries having been discussed, the Mayor and the Town Clerk waited on Boyce in Belton Square, and returned with the triumphant tidings that they had succeeded in their mission.
"I can't make out what you were running your head against, Duncan," said Sir Anthony.

"Of course, as you say, he's a modest chap and dislikes publicity.

So do we all.