Justine, you may remember, was a great favourite of yours…
““Justine, you may remember, was a great favourite of yours; and I recollect you once remarked that if you were in an ill humour, one glance from Justine could dissipate it, for the same reason that Ariosto gives concerning the beauty of Angelica —she looked so frank-hearted and happy. My aunt conceived a great attachment for her, by which she was induced to give her an education superior to that which she had at first intended. This benefit was fully repaid; Justine was the most grateful little creature in the world: I do not mean that she made any professions I never heard one pass her lips, but you could see by her eyes that she almost adored her protectress. Although her disposition was gay and in many respects inconsiderate, yet she paid the greatest attention to every gesture of my aunt. She thought her the model of all excellence and endeavoured to imitate her phraseology and manners, so that even now she often reminds me of her.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
A devoted caretaker’s affection can inspire gratitude and emulate virtues, even when the cared‑for is flawed.
In simple terms: Kindness creates loyalty and admiration.
Key Takeaway
Show genuine care, inspire gratitude.
Themes
care
gratitude
imitation
Mood
reflective
empathetic
Type
philosophical
literary
When to use this quote
- parent‑child relationships
- mentor‑mentee dynamics
- friendship development
Key Concepts
human nature
social bonds
emotional influence
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you balance admiration with realism?
- When does gratitude become dependency?
A Different Perspective
Flawed individuals may not always reciprocate.