Don't laugh at the spinsters, dear girls, for often very tender, tragic romances are hidden away in the hearts that beat so quietly under the sober gowns, and many silent sacrifices of youth, health, ambition, love itself, make the faded faces beautiful in God's sight. Even the sad, sour sisters should be kindly dealt with, because they have missed the sweetest part of life, if for no other reason.

And the good fairy said, I won't leave you money or pretty dresses but I will leave you the spirit to seek your fortune from your own efforts.

…Jo loved a few persons very dearly and dreaded to have their affection lost or lessened in any way.

Rule yourself. Love your neighbor. Do the duty that lies nearest you.

I will make a battering-ram of my head and make my way through this rough and tumble world.

Wild roses are fairest, and nature a better gardener than art.

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