He worked hard while in school, in the Wisconsin company, and even in the valley. His hard work earned him respect as he toiled alongside other people to earn a living. He knew his self-worth and never doubted his abilities. He was at peace with himself and his emotions, he was not presumptuous or arrogant (640) his self-esteem seemed boundless and justified. He was confident in his abilities and had happiness governing his morality and conduct. He never believed he had to be his brother's keeper; “. . . For as long as I can remember, I have felt that I would kill the man who claimed that I exist for the sake of his need. . .” (680) Instead, he believed in pursuing his own happiness. Happiness represented his morality, and ultimately, everything he did was for his happiness. He expressed it bluntly to his friend Francisco d'Anconia when he informed him of his decision to return to New York: “If I return it won't be because of our work. It will be to conquer the only thing I want from the world for myself…” (732). Although he was a reasonable man, he was not immune to emotions: he loved Dagny passionately and had a deep respect for his friends: Francisco d'Anconia and Ragnar Danneskjöld. He revered his mentor, Hugh Akston, who was like a father to him. He never hid his love for Dagny or his family