Saints and martyrs had never interested Maggie so much as sages and poets.

Man cannot choose his duties.

It is a vain thought to flee from the work that God appoints us, for the sake of finding a greater blessing, instead of seeking it where alone it is to be found - in loving obedience.

How impossible it is for strong healthy people to understand the way in which bodily malaise and suffering eats at the root of one's life! The philosophy that is true - the religion that is strength to the healthy - is constantly emptiness to one when the head is distracted and every sensation is oppressive.

Having once embarked on your marital voyage, it is impossible not to be aware that you make no way and the sea is not within sight; that in fact, you are exploring an enclosed basin.

It is always good to know, if only in passing, charming human beings. It refreshes one like flowers and woods and clear brooks.

In the ages since Adam's marriage, it has been good for some men to be alone, and for some women also.