While sobbing out this wish in broken accents, some one approached; I started up – again Helen Burns was near me…She sat down on the ground near me, embraced her knees with her arms, and rested her head upon them; in that attitude she remained silent as an Indian.
– Charlotte Bronte
Jane Eyre, Chapter 8. It is easy to see why Helen Burns becomes Jane’s best friend at Lowood. At Jane’s time of crisis, having been embarrassed and humiliated by Mr. Brocklehurst, she draws strength from Helen being close to her. While Jane breaks down and sobs, Helen sits down on the ground beside her and offers her the healing balm of friendship. A simile describes Helen’s stoical attitude – “silent as an Indian.”