This is the novel's only meeting between Nostromo and Charles Gould, opposite poles of the Sulaco hierarchy. Both are "quiet," suggesting that both are "reserved," i.e., holding back on their true feelings or purpose. At first glance, Nostromo's response seems to be scorning money for his ideal of reputation. But even that ideal was based on the hope of monetary reward, as he made clear to Decoud with specific reference to Charles Gould. Moreover, we know that he has since rejected the ideal of reputation. So his line really amounts to, "Can your society help the People in any way besides the false ideal of fidelity and the false reward of fame?" Equally significant is that Charles Gould makes no answer to this (not so rhetorical) question.