Are not there little chapters in everybody’s life, that seem to be nothing, and yet affect all the rest of the history? - William Makepeace Thackeray

He had placed himself at her feet so long that the poor little woman had been accustomed to trample upon him. She didn't wish to marry him, but she wished to keep him. She wished to give him nothing, but that he should give her all. It is a bargain not unfrequently levied in love.

... nobody does anything for nothing. ... it is the ordinary lot of people to have no friends if they themselves care for nobody.

Peace to thee, kind and selfish, vain and generous old heathen! — We shall see thee no more. Let us hope that Lady Jane supported her kindly, and led her with gentle hand out of the busy struggle of Vanity Fair.