I've got the key to my castle in the air, but whether I can unlock the door remains to be seen.

I've neither beauty, money, nor rank, yet every foolish boy mistakes my frank interest for something warmer, and makes me miserable. It is my misfortune. Think of me what you will, but beware of me in time, for against my will I may do you harm.

The girls gave their hearts into their mother's keeping-their souls into their father's; and to both parents, who lived and labored so faithfully for them, they gave a love that grew with their growth, and bound them tenderly together by the sweetest tie which blesses life and outlives death.

Jo had learned that hearts, like flowers, cannot be rudely handled, but must open naturally.

Let my name stand among those who are willing to bear ridicule and reproach for the truth's sake, and so earn some right to rejoice when the victory is won.

Keep good company, read good books, love good things and cultivate soul and body as faithfully as you can

A time will come when you will find that in gaining a brief joy you have lost your peace forever.