Among the smallest pygmies in the world was the smallest of the smallest pygmies in the world.
-- Narrator (N/A paragraph 2)

Importance: This quote is important because it introduces Little Flower, the main subject of the story. Furthermore, the repetition of 'smallest' emphasizes how small she really is. Additionally, the use of the somewhat outdated term 'pygmy' helps to fix the story and tone in a partially antiquated, more colonial era.

Aside from disease, infectious vapors from the waters, insufficient food and roving beasts, the greatest risk facing the scant Likoualas are the savage Bantus.
-- Narrator (N/A paragraph 2)

Importance: This quote emphasizes the nature of the Likoualas' misfortune. The long list of life-threatening circumstances highlights the fact that they are lucky to be alive. Moreover, the use of the derogatory term 'savage' establishes a narrative voice that is firmly grounded in destructive colonial viewpoints.

In another house a five-year-old girl, seeing the picture and hearing the commentary, became alarmed...
-- Narrator (N/A paragraph 6)