"It's only a little extra strong machinery that wants a good engineer." "That's no fault in the machinery, sir," said Winthrop.
"And all you have to do," suggested Mr.Herder, "is to find a good engineer." "I am my own engineer!" said Elizabeth, a little soothed by the first remark and made desperate by the second.
"So you are!" said her cousin.

"There's no doubt of that." "Are you a good one, Miss Elisabet' ?" said the naturalist, smiling at her.
"You must presume not! -- after what you have heard," she answered with abundant haughtiness.
"It is one mark of a good engineer to be a match for his machinery," said Winthrop quietly.
It was said so coolly and simply that Elizabeth did not take offence.

She stood, rather cooled down and thoughtful, still at the back of Mr.Herder's chair.

Winthrop rose to take leave, and Mr.Haye repeated his invitation.
"I will venture so far as to say I will come if I can, sir." "I shall expect you," said the other, shaking his hand cordially.
Mr.Herder went with his friend.

Mr.Haye soon himself followed, leaving the two ladies alone.