I know you're a fool, Jim Hardy, but for heaven's sake pretend you're not for five minutes.

I'd rather look ridiculous when everybody else does than plain and sensible all by myself.

People told her she hadn't changed much, in a tone which hinted they were surprised and a little disappointed she hadn't.

Don't be very frightened, Marilla. I was walking the ridge-pole and I fell off. I suspect I have sprained my ankle. But, Marilla, I might have broken my neck. Let us look on the bright side of things.

I've done my best, and I begin to understand what is meant by 'the joy of strife'. Next to trying and winning, the best thing is trying and failing.

It's dreadful what little things lead people to misunderstand each other.

I've always held that early marriage is a sure indication of second-rate goods that had to be sold in a hurry." - Martin Harris