I do assure you, Sir, that I have no pretension whatever of that kind of elegance which consists in tormenting a respectable man. I would rather be paid the compliment of being believed sincere. I thank you again and again for the honour you have done me in your proposals, but to accept them is absolutely impossible. My feelings in every respect forbid it. Can I speak plainer? Do not consider me now as an elegant female intending to plague you, but as a rational creature speaking the truth from her heart.
Jane AustenIt is wonderful, for almost all his actions may be traced to pride;-and pride has often been his best friend.
Jane AustenโI often think,โ said she, โthat there is nothing so bad as parting with one's friends. One seems so forlorn without them.โ
Jane Austen