That to begin with; let respect be the foundation, affection the first floor, love the superstructure.

I ask you to pass through life at my side—to be my second self, and best earthly companion.

you may fume and fidget as you please: but this is the best plan to pursue with you, I am certain. I like you more than I can say; but I’ll not sink into a bathos of sentiment: and with this needle of repartee I’ll keep you from the edge of the gulf too; and, moreover, maintain by its pungent aid that distance between you and myself most conducive to our real mutual advantage.

The human and fallible should not arrogate a power with which the divine and perfect alone can be safely intrusted.

But afterwards, is there nothing more for me in life - no true home - nothing to be dearer to me than myself?

What delusion has come over me? What sweet madness has seized me?

I have no wish to talk nonsense." "If you did, it would be in such a grave, quiet manner, I should mistake it for sense.