But, Polly, a principle that can't bear being laughed at, frowned on, and cold-shouldered, isn't worthy of the name. - Louisa May Alcott

I for one don't want to be ranked among idiots, felons, and minors any longer, for I am none of them.

There were six dolls to be taken up and dressed every morning, for Beth was a child still, and loved her pets as well as ever. Not one whole or handsome one among them; all were outcasts till Beth took them in; for, when her sisters outgrew these idols, they passed to her.... Beth cherished them all the more tenderly for that very reason, and set up a hospital for infirm dolls. No pins were ever stuck into their cotton vitals; no harsh words or blows were ever given them; no neglect ever saddened the heart of the most repulsive: but all were fed and clothed, nursed and caressed, with an affection which never failed.

…on some occasions, women, like dreams, go by contraries.