November is the most disagreeable month in the whole year.

…because talent isn't genius, and no amount of energy can make it so. I want to be great, or nothing.

Some stories are so familiar its like going home.

I had a pleasant time with my mind, for it was happy.

Gentlemen, be courteous to the old maids, no matter how poor and plain and prim, for the only chivalry worth having is that which is the readiest to to pay deference to the old, protect the feeble, and serve womankind, regardless of rank, age, or color.

Well, if I can't be happy, I can be useful, perhaps.

To be strong, and beautiful, and go round making music all the time. Yes, she could do that, and with a very earnest prayer Polly asked for the strength of an upright soul, the beauty of a tender heart, the power to make her life a sweet and stirring song, helpful while it lasted, remembered when it died.