How we cite our quotes: Citations follow this format: (Act.Line). Every time a character talks counts as one line, even if what they say turns into a long monologue.
Quote #1
LADY MARKBY: Really, now that the House of Commons is trying to become useful, it does a great deal of harm. (1.54)
One of the older characters in the play, Lady Markby's conversation is often a variation on "how things have changed." Here she seems to long for a bygone past when the House of Commons was more ceremonial than effective.
Quote #2
MRS. CHEVELEY. Politics are my only pleasure. (1.84)
Laura, Laura, Laura. (That's Mrs. Cheveley's first name.) It's all about her. Politics, sex, friendship all serve one purpose – securing her comfort and security.
Quote #3
SIR ROBERT CHILTERN. A political life is a noble career! (1.85)
This is early in his conversations with Mrs. Cheveley – before she reminds him of the ignoble moment that bought him this noble political career. One immoral act has enabled him to do a lot of good. The only problem is that she is not willing to forget that original, immoral act.