I can't get over my disappointment in not being a boy.

The young people were playing that still more absorbing game in which hearts are always trumps.

She fell into the moody, miserable state of mind which often comes when strong wills have to yield to the inevitable.

To marry without love betrays as surely as to love without marriage.

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.

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

Jo's face was a study next day, for the secret rather weighed upon her, and she found it hard not to look mysterious and important. Meg observed it, but did not troubled herself to make inquiries, for she had learned that the best way to manage Jo was by the law of contraries, so she felt sure of being told everything if she did not ask.