But none the less I have a conscience--a conscience about the things which really matter, at all events to me.

There is a flaw in that new invention.

It can be improved; I know that.

But as yet I do not see how, and--I cannot help it--I must get it right; I cannot let it go imperfect when I know that it's imperfect, when I know that it can be improved, when I am sure that I shall sooner or later hit upon the needed improvement.

That is what I mean when I say I have a conscience." Helena Vauquier smiled indulgently.