In the quote from Sylvie and Bruno by Lewis Carroll, Bruno describes someone who is neither running nor crawling but is instead moving forward with difficulty, likening their movement to that of a portmanteau. This imagery emphasizes the person's slow and strained progress, highlighting a sense of effort and perseverance in their journey.

The person also maintains a proud demeanor, keeping their chin raised high despite the struggle. This detail underscores a sense of dignity and resilience, suggesting that they face their challenges with dignity and determination, even if their movement appears burdensome.