"I am not fond of anything that is not perfectly good; and therefore I do not like my own writing, for I think it is not perfectly good."

"I am quite determined to be a disagreeable old maid."

"I am quite determined to have a good laugh, come what may."

"I am not at all in a humour for writing, I am growing idle and want some help. I have not written a word for a fortnight, and I really think I shall give it up altogether."

"I hate to hear you talk about all women as if they were fine ladies instead of rational creatures. None of us want to be in calm waters all our lives."