Mother Atkinson thought that every one should have a trade, or something to make a living out of , for rich people may grow poor, you know, and poor people have to work.... so when I saw how happy and independent those young ladies were, I wanted to have a trade, and then it wouldn't matter about money, though I like to have it well enough.

~ Louisa May Alcott

Louisa May Alcott Aunt Hill Eight Cousins Feminism Independent Poor Rich Rose Trade Women Work

This love of money is the curse of American, and for the sake of it men will sell honor and honesty, till we don't know whom to trust, and it is only a genius like Agassiz who dares to say, 'I cannot waste my time in getting rich,' said Mrs. Jessie sadly.

~ Louisa May Alcott

Louisa May Alcott America Aunt Hill Eight Cousins Honesty Honor Love Love Of Money Money Rich Trust

Yet that is considered an excellent school, and I dare say it would be if the benighted lady did not think it necessary to cram her pupils like Thanksgiving turkeys, instead of feeding them in a natural and wholesome way. It is the fault with most American schools, and the poor little heads will go on aching till we learn better.

~ Louisa May Alcott

Louisa May Alcott American Aunt Hill Doctor Alec Dr Alec Eight Cousins School Schooling Uncle Alec