That laugh was not encouraging to strangers; and hence it may have been well that it was rarely heard. Many theories might have been built upon it. It fell in well with conjectures of a temperament which would have not pity for weakness, but would be ready to yield ungrudging admiration to greatness and strength. Its producer’s personal goodness, if he had any, would be of a very fitful cast – an occasional almost aggressive generosity rather than a mild and constant kindness.
— The Mayor of Casterbridge by Thomas Hardy
