We cannot, without depraving our minds, endeavour to please a lover or husband, but in proportion as he pleases us.

Why is our fancy to be appalled by terrific perspectives of a hell beyond the grave?

The divine right of husbands, like the divine right of kings, may, it is hoped, in this enlightened age, be contested without danger.

I do earnestly wish to see the distinction of sex confounded in society, unless where love animates the behaviour.

I begin to love this little creature, and to anticipate his birth as a fresh twist to a knot which I do not wish to untie. Men are spoilt by frankness, I believe, yet I must tell you that I love you better than I supposed I did, when I promised to love you forever....I feel it thrilling through my frame, giving and promising pleasure.

It appears to me impossible that I should cease to exist, or that this active, restless spirit, equally alive to joy and sorrow, should only be organised dust - ready to fly abroad the moment the spring snaps, or the spark goes out, which kept it together. Surely something resides in this heart that is not perishable - and life is more than a dream.

The birthright of man ... is such a degree of liberty, civil and religious, as is compatible with the liberty of every other individual with whom he is united in a social compact.