“Mary was a famous fairground attraction but she doesn't really count as she rather famously turned out to be a monkey.”

“Sigh. Here's another fine woman that historians can't believe was real. Of course she was real. Not only is there a splendid Chinese poem called "The Ballad of Mulan", there is also an excellent cartoon by Disney.”

“I used to look at Jinks and marvel at her smooth complexion, but over the years I have come to realise that she has been spared wrinkles by virtue of never having succumbed to heavy thought.”

“There's no limit to what I wouldn't do for you. Just ask and it will be done, no matter the sacrifice.”

“...he couldn't help but wonder what Hannah might have looked like if...he'd answered that question April had asked him years ago.”

“Then, as now, it was just uncomfortable. Now, as then, it was a lifted chin and a crooked smile that said more than they would ever allow themselves to communicate.”

“Go back to bed, Cowan. I want no promises from you.”