I’m not like the rest of you; I never made any plans about what I’d do when I grew up; I never thought of being married, as you did. I couldn’t seem to imagine myself anything but stupid little Beth, trotting about at home, of no use anywhere but there. I never wanted to go away, and the hard part now is leaving you all. I’m not afraid, but it seems as if I should be homesick for you even in heaven.

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.

Don't try to make me grow up before my time.

Our actions are in our own hands, but the consequences of them are not. Remember that, my dear, and think twice before you do anything.

[She was] kept there in the sort of embrace a man gives to the dearest creature the world holds for him.

Money is a needful and precious thing, and when well used, a noble thing, but I never want you to think it is the first or only prize to strive for. I'd rather see you poor men's wives, if you were happy, beloved, contented, than queens on thrones, without self-respect and peace.

I hate ordinary people!