But struggling with these better feelings was pride,--the vice of the lowest and most debased creatures no less than of the high and self-assured. The miserable companion of thieves and ruffians, the fallen outcast of low haunts, the associate of the scourings of the jails and hulks, living within the shadow of the gallows itself,--even this degraded being felt too proud to betray a feeble gleam of the womanly feeling which she thought a weakness, but which alone conneced her with that humanity, of which her wasting life had obliterated so many, many traces when a very child.

Summary

This quote highlights the internal struggle of a person whose pride hinders their capacity to show compassion and kindness. It emphasizes how pride is not a virtue reserved solely for the confident and esteemed individuals, but can also be found in the lowest and marginalized members of society. The quote describes a person living in abject conditions, who, despite their association with criminals and outcasts, still harbors a sense of pride that prevents them from expressing their vulnerable and empathetic side. This pride, a defense mechanism against perceived weakness, has gradually eroded their connection to humanity and sensitivity.

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