To say, ’well done’ to any bit of good work is to take hold of the powers which have made the effort and strengthen them beyond our knowledge.

Brooks argues that sincere commendation is an active intervention in another person’s moral energy. Saying “well done” does more than recognize an outcome; it “takes hold” of the inner powers—discipline, courage, conscience, faith—that produced the work, reinforcing them in ways the speaker cannot fully measure. The quote treats encouragement as formative: it helps convert a single good act into a strengthened habit of goodness. It also implies a responsibility in judgment: withholding deserved praise can starve developing virtues, while thoughtful affirmation can cultivate them. In short, Brooks elevates praise from social nicety to a quiet instrument of ethical and spiritual growth.