How we cite our quotes: (Chapter.Page)
Quote #10
"Why did you select boys?"
"Because all the others were born in an atmosphere of superstition and reared in it." (42.9-10)
Why does Hank's plan take so long? Because he has to train a whole new generation of people not to be afraid of their own shadow, and that takes time. The tragedy is that it does seem to be working: his young boys here are educated and enlightened, and could have led England to a new golden age free of supernatural beliefs, even if Hank weren't present. It makes the tragedy of the last few chapters all the more painful.