How we cite our quotes: (Chapter.Paragraph)
Quote #7
He freed me from the stocks. He is my friend. My only friend. (35.15)
Taking food to Curzon in the prison may be fraught with danger, but that doesn't concern Isabel. Curzon is not only her best friend, but proved himself by saving her life. Curzon could have just let her die, but he didn't; Isabel recognizes that she owes him the same act of loyalty.
Quote #8
[Lady Seymour] sipped again and looked at me over the rim of her teacup. "It is honorable to help a friend in need." (36.25)
Isn't Lady Seymour awesome? She's such a breath of fresh air after Madam Lockton's selfishness and general unreasonableness. Still, we can't help but wonder if she's thinking of her friendship with Isabel when she says this. In a way, she's telling Isabel that she is "honorable" for the sacrifice she made in rescuing Lady Seymour from the fire.
Quote #9
I could not eat or drink a thing for my belly was tied up with fear. My thoughts chased round and round my brainpan. I could not visit the prison daily. I was sure to be caught and punished. But I had to visit the prison daily. Curzon's life depended on it. (37.80)
Enslaved people in Isabel's time basically lived in fear of beatings, separation from loved ones, and even death. None of this, however, matters to Isabel in comparison to keeping her friend alive. Her willingness to sacrifice her life for Curzon demonstrates the strength of their relationship.