“But to hear of the distress which these unfortunate people have suffered, would fill with horror the stoutest heart, and make them the most obdurate melt with pity” (page 61)

This quote reflects and provides the attitude of the Haitians during the revolution, as they had suffered too much from the French people. Mary, the writer of the letters to her friend back in the United States, uses the words “stoutest” to describe the heart of the Haitians in order to convey the sense of bravery the people there had in themselves. They started a revolution against injustice and inequality. Mary also uses the word “obdurate” to provide an idea of the attitude of the Haitians in knowing that they would not quit until they got what they wanted. This was said of them even though she heard of the “distress” and the suffering these people went through, and that clearly shows a lot about them.

I found this quote perfect for the entire letter, and especially perfect that it was placed in the first letter out of the many that are to come because it reflects and helps Mary’s friend realize and open a perspective to how strong these people were. In the first letter, it is only described about the revolution and the culture of the people. I feel as if this letter is a stepping stone and has a foreshadowing effect for the people of Haiti, as they will have success to come in the future.  The two words “stoutest” and “obdurate” are perfect for these series of letters ahead.