She had been forced into prudence in her youth, she learned romance as she grew older: the natural sequel of an unnatural beginning.

Her family had of late been exceedingly fluctuating. For many years of her life she had had two sons; but the crime and annihilation of Edward a few weeks ago, had robbed her of one; the similar annihilation of Robert had left her for a fortnight without any; and now, by the resurrection of Edward, she had one again.

Elinor agreed with it all, for she did not think he deserved the compliment of rational opposition.

Wisdom is better than wit, and in the long run will certainly have the laugh on her side.

Marianne was silent; it was impossible for her to say what she did not feel, however trivial the occasion.

If the heroine of one novel be not patronized by the heroine of another, from whom can she expect protection and regard?

A sick child is always the mother's property; her own feelings generally make it so.