In this excerpt from the life of charlotte brontë by elizabeth gaskell, what is the meaning of the underlined words? even an inhabitant of the neighbouring county of lancaster is struck by the peculiar force of character which the yorkshiremen display. this makes them interesting as a race; while, at the same time, as individuals, the remarkable degree of self-sufficiency they possess gives them an air of independence rather apt to repel a stranger. i use this expression, "self-sufficiency" in the largest sense. conscious of the strong sagacity and the dogged power of will which seem almost the birthright of the natives of the west riding, each man relies upon himself, and seeks no at the hands of his neighbour. from rarely requiring the assistance of others, he comes to doubt the power of bestowing it: from the general success of his efforts, he grows to depend upon them, and to over-esteem his own energy and power. the word sagacity means . - showing responsibility - good judgment - dullnesses - exhibition of abnormal behavior the word bestowing means . - removing - expecting - providing - critizizing need of !