We don't choose our talents; but we needn't hide them in a napkin because they are not just what we want. - Louisa May Alcott

(...)love is the only thing that we can carry with us when we go, and it makes the end so easy.

My dear girls, I am ambitious for you; but not to have you make a dash in the world, marry rich men merely because they are rich, or have splendid houses, which are not homes, because love is wanting. Money is a needful and precious thing, and when well used a noble thing; but I never want you to think it is the first or only prize to strive for. I'd rather see you poor men's wives, if you were happy, beloved, contented, than queens on thrones, without self-respect and peace.

"How beautiful that is!" said Laurie softly, for he was quick to see and feel beauty of any kind.