If a scheme was started, if an experiment was suggested, Cecil's cheque-book came out directly, and the thing was set on foot without delay.

His easy, elastic step, his bright eye, his warm, hearty handshake, seemed to electrify people--to put some of his own spirit into them.

The circle of his influence was ever increasing--the very oldest fogeys, who had prophesied every kind of failure, were being gradually won over.
Cecil himself was transcendently happy in his work; his mind was in it; no exertion, no care or trouble, was too much.

He worked harder than any navvy, and never felt fatigue.

People said of him--'What a wonderful man!' He was so genuine, so earnest, so thorough, men could not choose but believe in him.