Beggar Quote by Frances Hodgson Burnett
““Oh, Donald,” (this was Guy Clarence’s name), Janet exclaimed alarmedly, “why did you offer that little girl your sixpence? I’m sure she is not a beggar!” “She didn’t speak like a beggar!” cried Nora. “And her face didn’t really look like a beggar’s face!” “Besides, she didn’t beg,” said Janet. “I was so afraid she might be angry with you. You know, it makes people angry to be taken for beggars when they are not beggars.” “She wasn’t angry,” said Donald, a trifle dismayed, but still firm. “She laughed a little, and she said I was a kind, kind little darling thing. And I was!”--stoutly. “It was my whole sixpence.””
About This Quote
Source Book: The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett, 1911
A child’s generosity is misinterpreted as charity, highlighting how kindness can be misunderstood when assumptions about poverty are made.
In simple terms: Kindness can be mistaken for charity.
Key Takeaway
Be mindful of assumptions about others’ needs.
Themes
generosity
misunderstanding
class
empathy
Mood
thoughtful
reflective
Type
literary
teaching
emotional
When to use this quote
- parenting
- teaching empathy
- community aid
- charitable acts
Key Concepts
social perception
childhood innocence
economic bias
Questions to Reflect On
- How do we recognize sincere generosity?
- What biases affect our view of giving?
A Different Perspective
Assumptions about poverty can obscure genuine kindness.
