How we cite our quotes: (Volume.Chapter.Paragraph)
Quote #7
"[But] because you are a man, dealing with a set of men over whom you have, whether you reject the use of it or not, immense power, just because your lives and your welfare are so constantly and intimately interwoven." (1.15.100)
When questioned by Mr. Thornton about compassion, Margaret replies that he has a moral obligation to his workers to be kind and understanding. It's not because he's their boss that he has this duty, but because he's a human being.
Quote #8
Margaret's whole soul rose up against him while he reasoned in this way—as if commerce were everything and humanity nothing. (1.19.56)
The moment Margaret hears Mr. Thornton talking as though money ruled the world she starts to feel repulsed by the sight of him. She can't stand this way of thinking. But what she doesn't realize is that at this moment, she's failing to show compassion to Mr. Thornton.
Quote #9
Boucher, the neighbour of whom she had frequently heard mention, as by turns exciting Higgins' compassion, as an unskillful workman with a large family depending upon him for support. (1.19.56)
This neighbor named Boucher has always been a bit of a thorn in Nicholas Higgins' side. But that's never stopped Higgins from looking after Boucher and his family in any way he can. That's where compassion becomes more of an obligation than a hobby.