But, sir, they have written me down upon the history of…
“But, sir, they have written me down upon the history of the country as worthy of expulsion, and in no unkindness I must tell them that for all future time my self-respect requires that I shall pass them as strangers.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The speaker asserts personal dignity, refusing to be treated as an enemy despite being labeled for expulsion.
In simple terms: I will keep my self‑respect and treat them as strangers.
Key Takeaway
Maintain self‑respect despite hostile labels.
Themes
dignity
identity
conflict
Mood
defiant
resolved
Type
statement
philosophical
When to use this quote
- political exile
- social ostracism
- personal boundaries
Key Concepts
self‑respect
social exile
personal integrity
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you preserve dignity when others label you?
- What does treating them as strangers achieve?
A Different Perspective
Even with a label, one can choose how to respond.