I will not adopt that ungenerous and impolitic custom so common with novel writers, of degrading by their contemptuous censure the very performances, to the number of which they are themselves adding?joining with their greatest enemies in bestowing the harshest epithets on such works, and scarcely ever permitting them to be read by their own heroine, who, if she accidentally take up a novel, is sure to turn over its insipid leaves with disgust.
Jane AustenShe mediated, by turns, on broken promises and broken arches, phaetons and false hangings, Tilneys and trap-doors.
Jane AustenYou have qualities which I had not before supposed to exist in such a degree in any human creature. You have some touches of the angel in you.
Jane AustenIndeed, I am very sorry to be right in this instance. I would much rather have been merry than wise.
Jane Austen