ridicule is often harder to bear than self-denial. - Louisa May Alcott

Oh, Jo. Jo, you have so many extraordinary gifts; how can you expect to lead an ordinary life? You’re ready to go out and – and find a good use for your talent. Tho’ I don’t know what I shall do without my Jo. Go, and embrace your liberty. And see what wonderful things come of it.

...and the most intense desire gave force to her passionate words as the girl glanced despairingly about the dreary room like a caged creature on the point of breaking loose.

My only answer is, if my grave stood open on one side and you upon the other I'd go into my grave before I would take one step to meet you.