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Fortnight Quote by Jane Austen

“I honour your circumspection. A fortnight's acquaintance is certainly very little. One cannot know what a man really is by the end of a fortnight. But if we do not venture somebody else will; and after all, Mrs. Long and her daughters must stand their chance; and, therefore, as she will think it…” quote by Jane Austen
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““I honour your circumspection. A fortnight's acquaintance is certainly very little. One cannot know what a man really is by the end of a fortnight. But if we do not venture somebody else will; and after all, Mrs. Long and her daughters must stand their chance; and, therefore, as she will think it an act of kindness, if you decline the office, I will take it on myself.””

Jane Austen

About This Quote

Source Novel: Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen, 1813

The speaker acknowledges brief acquaintance limits judgment, urging action before others intervene, and offers to assume responsibility out of kindness.

In simple terms: Brief meetings hide true character; act before others do.

Key Takeaway

Take initiative and offer help when needed.

Themes

judgment initiative kindness

Mood

thoughtful considerate

Type

advice social

When to use this quote

  • courtship
  • business negotiations
  • friendship decisions
  • volunteering

Key Concepts

social perception responsibility agency

Questions to Reflect On

  • What risks do you face by acting quickly?
  • How can you balance caution with initiative?
A Different Perspective

Assuming roles without full knowledge can lead to missteps.

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