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Nellie was a good girl, and I think had a sort of quiet…

“Nellie was a good girl, and I think had a sort of quiet respect for old Fagg's unobtrusiveness. But her fancy was already taken captive by Rattler's superficial qualities, which were obvious and pleasing. I don't think Nellie was any worse than you or I. We are more apt to take acquaintances at…” quote by Bret Harte
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““Nellie was a good girl, and I think had a sort of quiet respect for old Fagg's unobtrusiveness. But her fancy was already taken captive by Rattler's superficial qualities, which were obvious and pleasing. I don't think Nellie was any worse than you or I. We are more apt to take acquaintances at their apparent value than their intrinsic worth. It's less trouble, and, except when we want to trust them, quite as convenient.””

Bret Harte

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

People often judge others by superficial traits rather than intrinsic worth, choosing convenience over deeper trust.

In simple terms: We value appearances over true character.

Key Takeaway

Seek deeper understanding beyond surface.

Themes

perception trust value

Mood

thoughtful analytical

Type

philosophical observational

When to use this quote

  • social interactions
  • friendship
  • networking

Key Concepts

superficial judgment intrinsic worth

Questions to Reflect On

  • How often do you judge by appearance?
  • What can you do to see intrinsic worth?
A Different Perspective

Convenience can lead to shallow relationships.

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