He was a man who could be depended on.

Accordingly, when the Earl of Havensworth was informed of Stephenson's desire to erect a locomotive, he at once furnished him with the means for enabling him to carry his wishes into effect.
Watt, also, when inventing the condensing steam-engine, maintained himself by making and selling mathematical instruments.

He made flutes, organs, compasses,--anything that would maintain him, until he had completed his invention.

At the same time he was perfecting his own education--learning French, German, mathematics, and the principles of natural philosophy.

This lasted for many years; and by the time that Watt developed his steam-engine and discovered Mathew Boulton, he had, by his own efforts, become an accomplished and scientific man.
These great workers did not feel ashamed of labouring with their hands for a living; but they also felt within themselves the power of doing head-work as well as hand-work.