What about Amari's condition surprises Fiona O'Reilly? What does this prove about her character?

Mrs. O'Reilly is shocked by the whip and branding scars that Amari bears. The Irish woman, whose own husband owns slaves, cannot imagine anyone treating another person in such a way. She says, "My Patrick is a good man and does not mistreat his property. Our slaves like it here" (256). The O'Reilly's appear to be under the misconception that slavery is necessary if they wish to make a living; however, while they view slaves as possessions, they are unwilling to be unkind.