How we cite our quotes: Citations follow this format: (Volume.Chapter.Section.Page). We used the 50th Anniversary Edition published by Signet Books in 2007.
Quote #10
"There's only a worn thread holding the continent together. There will be one train a day, then one train a week – then the Taggart Bridge will collapse and -"
"No, it won't!"
It was her voice and they whirled to her. Her face was white, but calmer than it had been when she had answered them last.
Slowly, Galt rose to his feet and inclined his head, as in acceptance of a verdict. "You have made your decision" he said.
"I have." (3.2.6.68-72)
Dagny's choice here seems a bit like an involuntary reflex, which is interesting given the amount of emphasis Galt and Co. place on rational decision-making.
Quote #11
"Such is the future you are capable of winning. It requires a struggle; so does any human value. All life is a purposeful struggle, and your only choice the choice of a goal. Do you wish to continue the battle of your present or do you wish to fight for my world?" (3.7.1.397)
Galt delivers his version of the St. Crispin's Day speech (a famous pre-battle speech from Shakespeare's Henry V) when he calls everyone to join his crusade. There are shades of Aragorn from The Return of the King here, too.
Quote #12
"Better come along, Mr. Willers," said the conductor.
"No!" cried Eddie, clutching the metal rung as if he wanted his hand to grow fast to it.
The barker shrugged. "Well, it's your funeral!" (3.10.2.97-99)
Eddie takes his refusal to let go of everything the railroad stands for (civilization, achievement, reason, hard work, heroism) to literal extremes here when he refuses to abandon the broken-down train.