How we cite our quotes: (Chapter.Paragraph)
Quote #7
"This is an opportunity tragically lost," the Duchess declared. "How important these ocean voyages are when people are thrown together. Dynasties have been decided. And so we must take steps. It is all for the sake of family."
And that, of course, is a thing I've always believed. (9.72-73)
The Duchess and Helena have at least one thing in common: they both believe family is the most important thing in the whole wide world. And when it comes to family, they're talking about mice and humans. Do you think mice families and human families work the same way in this book? Or are Helena and the Duchess mistaken?
Quote #8
As the evening of the royal reception approached, the time drew nigh to pay our way. But how would we even get to the Royal Suite? We bickered for days—rough days and smooth, under Camilla's bed, and at our end of the yardstick. (10.1)
Things aren't always fine and dandy for these mice sisters—in fact, they hardly agree on anything. And once Louise and Beatrice become a bit bolder and are willing to stand up to Helena, all bets are off. These three just can't see eye to eye. So when do they fight? All the time, apparently. Check out how they are fighting all over the ship.
Quote #9
With that Louise went sound asleep on the crushed lily of the valley. I tossed until dawn broke through the portholes. Then back Beatrice came. She was just about to drop into the jewelry case when she saw Louise's sleeping form. She drew up a hand. Then she nuzzled in between us. Her nose nestled near my ear, and she snored convincingly.
But I was not deceived. (12.59-60)
Aw—the mice sisters are sleeping together. That's so sweet. They definitely have a close bond, but this doesn't mean everything is perfect between them. In fact, Louise and Helena have just been gossiping about Beatrice—and Beatrice is pretending to sleep because she snuck out of bed in the middle of the night. Looks like family in this book is full of sweet times and some secrets, to boot.