The present representative of the Dedlocks is an excellent master. He supposes all his dependents to be utterly bereft of individual characters, intentions, or opinions, and is persuaded that he was born to supersede the necessity of their having any. If he were to make a discovery to the contrary, he would be simply stunned would never recover himself, most likely, except to gasp and die.

Summary

This quote highlights the arrogance and ignorance of the present representative of the Dedlocks, who views their dependents as devoid of independent thoughts and identities. The master's belief in his own superiority is so ingrained that any hint of autonomy among his subordinates would completely shock and incapacitate him. The quote suggests that the master's rigid mindset leaves no room for acknowledging the individuality or agency of those beneath him, ultimately reflecting a lack of empathy and understanding.

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