Final answer:
Stockton's final words were significant because they left the readers with something to think about.
Step-by-step explanation:
Stockton's final words were significant because they left the readers with something to think about. By concluding the text with his final thoughts, Stockton prompted readers to reflect on the information presented and draw their own conclusions. The significance of his final words lies in their ability to leave a lasting impression on the readers and stimulate further contemplation. In that case, final words often hold significant meaning as they can encapsulate a person's legacy, sentiments, or summarize an important perspective on an event. For instance, if we delve into the quote provided in the question, regarding the Missouri Compromise being a 'reprieve only, not a final sentence,' it reflects the former president's belief that, though the Compromise may have temporarily resolved sectional tensions between the North and South over the issue of slavery, it was not a lasting solution. This illustrates how a leader's parting words can reveal insight into their thoughts and can foreshadow future events.