Oh, Jo, how could you? Your one beauty.

Go out more, keep cheerful as well as busy, for you are the sunshine-maker of the family, and if you get dismal there is no fair weather.

Every house needs a grandmother in it.

When I had youth I had no money; now I have the money I have no time; and when I get the time, if I ever do, I shall have no health to enjoy life. I suppose it's the discipline I need; but it's rather hard to love the things I do, and see them go by because duty chains me to my galley. If I ever come into port with all sails set, that will be my reward perhaps.

Watch and pray, dear, never get tired of trying, and never think it is impossible to conquer your fault.

So she enjoyed herself heartily, and found, what isn't always the case, that her granted wish was all she had hoped.

I put in my list all the busy, useful independent spinsters I know, for liberty is a better husband than love to many of us.