How we cite our quotes: (Chapter.Section.Paragraph)
Quote #7
"…The peasants of France, the serfs of Russia. Hardly more than animals now. But because we fight, they shall see freedom like a new sun rising in the west. Those natural rights God has given to every man, no matter how humble…" He smiled suddenly and said "…or crazy," and took a good pull at his tankard.
"…The battle we win over the worst in England shall benefit the best in England. How well are they over there represented when it comes to taxes? Not very well. It will be better for them when we have won this war.
"Will French peasants go on forever pulling off their caps and saying 'Oui, Monsieur,' when the gold coaches run down their children? They will not. Italy. And all those German states. Are they nothing but soldiers? Will no one show them the rights of good citizens?" (8.5.43-45)
This is part of James Otis's long speech at the final meeting of the Boston Observers. He seems to be saying that the whole world will be improved once the rebellion against England prevails. What does historical evidence say about the truth of this claim? How might this passage have affected Forbes's original readers?
Quote #8
Although the very young officer was proud and class-conscious enough when they met indoors at the Lytes' or Afric Queen, once both were in their saddles they were equals. […]
From that day he and Johnny spent hours together jumping or exercising horses. Johnny almost worshipped him for his skill and almost loved him, because, ever and anon, he looked so much like Rab; but still it was only where horses were concerned they were equals. Indoors he was rigidly a British officer and a "gentleman" and Johnny an inferior. This shifting about puzzled Johnny. It did not seem to puzzle the British officer at all. (9.2.45-46)
Lieutenant Stranger accepts the paradox of his and Johnny's friendship as the way the world is, while Johnny can't understand it at all. What does this say about what each of them takes for granted about the way the world is? What assumptions is each making?
Quote #9
"I will leave the decision entirely to her. She shall be perfectly free to choose between us. Precious, would you rather go with me to London and be a great lady and wear silks and jewels and ride in coaches, or stay here and be just another poor working girl?"
[…]
"Which would you rather be, a common person like your sister or a fine lady?" (11.4.20, 26)
This is one of Lavinia Lyte's most horrible, meanest moments—hands down. Hello, Cilla is in the room while Lavinia Lyte is saying this stuff. Miss Lavinia pretty much buys Isannah's affections. What does this scene say about the three women's characters? And, uh, we'd like to point out that Isannah is totally showing she can be bought. Again. See her analysis in the "Characters" section for what this says about her.