How we cite our quotes: (Chapter.Paragraph)
Quote #4
If I opened the gate, I would be a criminal. Slaves were not allowed after the sunset without a pass from the master. Anyone who caught me could take me to the jail. (10.22)
When you think about the massive amount of regulations Isabel practically collapses under as the Locktons' slave, the risks she attempts to take to secure freedom for her and Ruth become pretty astonishing. She recognizes here that the most overwhelming task ahead of her isn't going to Bellingham's and ratting on Lockton—it's being brave enough to take the first step out of the gate and violate the rules.
Quote #5
[Madam] flew into the bookcase, causing several books to tumble to the ground. I almost reached for her but was afraid to anger Lockton any further.
"I command you to stay here, Anne. This is your duty and you will obey me." (7.32-33)
As if he doesn't have enough people to order around already, Lockton seems to consider his wife little more than one of the house servants. It's true that she's pretty disrespectful to him—what husband or wife would put up with the kind of stuff she says? Still, telling your wife that it's her duty to obey you is laying on the rules a little thick.
Quote #6
Colonel Regan fastened his collar without looking at me. "The law binds my hands and my actions. You must return with your mistress," he said, concentrating on his task. "Even during times of war, we must follow the rules of propriety and order." (21.112)
Wait a minute… It's considered proper and orderly for humans to own other humans and be physically abusive? Not in our book. Colonel Regan's statement is yet another example of the strict observance of slavery in colonial society—even if it means Isabel's life.