For all his pain, he longed to see the author of it. Although he hated Margaret at times, when he thought of that gentle familiar attitude and all the attendant circumstances, he had a restless desire to renew her picture in his mind - a longing for the very atmosphere she breathed. He was in the Charybdis of passion, and must perforce circle and circle ever nearer round the fatal centre.
Elizabeth GaskellOf all faults the one she most despised in others was the want of bravery; the meanness of heart which leads to untruth.
Elizabeth GaskellThe question always is, has everything been done to make the sufferings of these exceptions as small as possible? Or, in the triumph of the crowded procession, have the helpless been trampled on, instead of being gently lifted aside out of the roadway of the conqueror, whom they have no power to accompany on his march?
Elizabeth GaskellA wise parent humors the desire for independent action, so as to become the friend and advisor when his absolute rule shall cease.
Elizabeth GaskellSometimes one likes foolish people for their folly, better than wise people for their wisdom.
Elizabeth GaskellBut Margaret went less abroad, among machinery and men; saw less of power in its public effect, and, as it happened, she was thrown with one or two of those who, in all measures affecting masses of people, must be acute sufferers for the good of many. The question always is, has everything been done to make the sufferings of these exceptions as small as possible?
Elizabeth Gaskell