If life is often so hard as this, I don't see how we ever shall get through it.

I wish I had no heart, it aches so.

I think she is growing up, and so begins to dream dreams, and have hopes and fears and fidgets, without knowing why or being able to explain them.

politics were as bad as mathematics, and that the mission of politicians seemed to be calling each other names

I can get on with wild beasts first-rate; but men rile me awfully.

[Jo to her mother] I knew there was mischief brewing. I felt it and now it's worse than I imagined. I just wish I could marry Meg myself, and keep her safe in the family.

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