There is nothing more thrilling in this world, I think, than having a child that is yours, and yet is mysteriously a stranger.

There is no detective in England equal to a spinster lady of uncertain age with plenty of time on her hands.

... there are many to whom money has no personal appeal, but who can be tempted by the power it confers.

Everybody always knows something," said Adam, "even if it's something they don't know they know.

... the belief in a superstratum of human beings ... is the most evil of all beliefs. For when you say, 'I am not as other men' -- you have lost the two most valuable qualities we have ever tried to attain: -- humility and brotherhood.

Do you know my friend that each one of us is a dark mystery, a maze of conflicting passions and desire and aptitudes?

I'm not often bored,' I assured her. "Life's not long enough for that.