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.