On page 28, Hagar says, “I can manage quite well.”

In her old age, Hagar required greater care. Her daughter-in-law Doris always tried to help her, but she was unwilling to rely on anyone’s help. Even when Marvin tried to help, she would just decline and reply: “I can manage quite well, thank-you… Go on now for pity’s sake”. (The Stone Angel 33) Hagar's stubborness is what eventually kills her.