[I]t is well to have as many holds upon happiness as possible.

A man would always wish to give a woman a better home than the one he takes her from; and he who can do it, where there is no doubt of her regard, must, I think, be the happiest of mortals.

She began now to comprehend that he was exactly the man who, in disposition and talents, would most suit her. His understanding and temper, though unlike her own, would have answered all her wishes. It was an union that must have been to the advantage of both: by her ease and liveliness, his mind might have been softened, his manners improved; and from his judgement, information, and knowledge of the world, she must have received benefit of greater importance.

Follies and nonsense, whims and inconsistencies do divert me, I own, and I laugh at them whenever I can.

I do not find it easy to talk to people I don't know.

that you seemed almost as fearful of notice and praise as other women were of neglect. (Edmund to Fanny)

The little bit (two inches wide) of ivory on which I work with so fine a brush as produces little effect after much labour.