In the passage, the character demonstrates immense inner strength and determination in the face of adversity. Her ability to quickly summon her resolve impresses Dirk Burnaby, highlighting its exceptional nature compared to his experiences. This mental resilience allows her to distinguish between her internal struggles and the external challenges she faces.

The central message is that she realizes the true nature of her fears lies outside of herself, emphasizing the need to confront those challenges directly rather than letting them overwhelm her. It underscores the idea that personal empowerment comes from facing difficult situations head-on with courage and clarity.