Here and there, human nature may be great in times of trial, but generally speaking it is its weakness and not its strength that appears in a sick chamber; it is selfishness and impatience rather than generosity and fortitude, that one hears of. There is so little real friendship in the world! – and unfortunately' (speaking low and tremulously) 'there are so many who forget to think seriously till it is almost too late.
Jane AustenWisdom is better than wit, and in the long run will certainly have the laugh on her side.
Jane Austenthat you seemed almost as fearful of notice and praise as other women were of neglect. (Edmund to Fanny)
Jane AustenThere, he had seen every thing to exalt in his estimation the woman he had lost, and there begun to deplore the pride, the folly, the madness of resentment, which had kept him from trying to regain her when thrown in his way.
Jane Austen