We do not look in great cities for our best morality.

No one can be really esteemed accomplished who does not greatly surpass what is usually met with.

She knew that when she played she was giving pleasure only to herself; but this was no new sensation

They gave themselves up wholly to their sorrow, seeking increase of wretchedness in every reflection that could afford it, and resolved against ever admitting consolation in future.

I never wish to offend, but I am so foolishly shy, that I often seem negligent, when I am only kept back by my natural awkwardness ... Shyness is only the effect of a sense of inferiority in some way or other. If I could persuade myself that my manners were perfectly easy and graceful, I should not be shy.

Everybody has their taste in noises as well as in other matters; and sounds are quite innoxious, or most distressing, by their sort rather than their quantity.

How little of permanent happiness could belong to a couple who were only brought together because their passions were stronger than their virtue.