“What I thought we might have a conversation about, is basically I do math, sir, not clandestine operations that severely deplete my mental resources.”

“Aurore had a well-maintained body that met the basic requirements of haute couture.”

“Boonie wondered with sadness, Why don't I have any real memories like that of this elder statesman who happens to live in our house from time to time? This handsome, formal man whose blood runs mysteriously in my own veins? He was always more like a king than a father.”

“David Kay, listening in, had no idea what this was about, but he watched in horror as Mrs. Russet's gaze turned from weathered shingles to flint.”

“They were wrong, he thought. She is better than Garbo.”

“Joss often thought of herself in male terms when analyzing her role in the family business system, since there didn't seem to be any available roles or jobs for women.”

“Like those dreaded dinner party words 'Longtime Companion' or "Partner.' Sometimes I just want to scream, 'is she your wife or is she your mistress? Please clarify the nature of your bloody relationship!”