An Englishman thinks a hundred miles is a long way; and American thinks a hundred years is a long time

Boldness in battle is nothing out of the way... but to face down fear in cold blood is rare in any man.

Character, I think, is the single most important thing in fiction. You might read a book once for its interesting plot—but not twice.

Lord that she might be safe. She and my children.

I can bear pain myself, he said softly, but I couldna bear yours. That would take more strength than I have.

If she was broken, she would slash him with her jagged edges, reckless as a drunkard with a shattered bottle.

I prayed all the way up that hill yesterday, he said softly. Not for you to stay; I didna think that would be right. I prayed I'd be strong enough to send ye away. He shook his head, still gazing up the hill, a faraway look in his eyes. I said 'Lord, if I've never had courage in my life before, let me have it now. Let me be brave enough not to fall on my knees and beg her to stay.' He pulled his eyes away from the cottage and smiled briefly at me. Hardest thing I ever did, Sassenach.