... up to this date, I have never been shut up in a separate room, or hedged off with any observances. My study, all the study I have attained to, is the little 2nd drawing room where all the (feminine) life of the house goes on; and I don't think I have ever had two hours undisturbed (except at night, when everybody is in bed) during my whole literary life.

... I have always been a disappointment to my friends. I have no gift of talk, not much to say; and though I have always been an excellent listener, that only succeeds under auspicious circumstances.

The incomprehensibleness of women is an old theory, but what is that to the curious wondering observation with which wives, mothers, and sisters watch the other unreasoning animal in those moments when he has snatched the reins out of their hands, and is not to be spoken to! . It is best to let him come to, and feel his own helplessness.

Terror of being found out is not always a preservative, it sometimes hurries on the act which it ought to prevent.

Married people do stand up so for each other when you say a word, however they may fight between themselves.

Imagination is the first faculty wanting in those that do harm to their kind.

Truly there is nothing in the world so blessed or so sweet as the heritage of children.