A novel should be as like life as a painting, but not as like life as a piece of waxwork.
Mary Russell MitfordI foresee that the Andersen and Fairy Tale fashion will not last; none of these things away from general nature do.
Mary Russell MitfordThe slightest emotion of disinterested kindness that passes through the mind improves and refreshes that mind, producing generous thought and noble feeling, as the sun and rain foster your favourite flowers. Cherish kind wishes, my children; for a time may come when you may be enabled to put them in practice.
Mary Russell MitfordWe may admire people for being wise, but we like them best when they are foolish.
Mary Russell Mitford