How we cite our quotes: (Volume.Book.Chapter.Line)
Quote #4
That was what was the matter with her. She was a dove. Oh, wasn't she?—it echoed within her as she became aware of the sound, outside, of the return of their friends. (1.5.6.23)
Milly knows that everyone sees her as an innocent young girl. But partway through this book, she becomes determined not to let people push her around or treat her like a kid anymore. She takes control of her own life by visiting her doctor on her own terms and going out into public whenever she wants. She's tired of old, envious women telling her what to do and trying to live vicariously through her.
Quote #5
Milly felt, he could see, the difference; he might as well have praised her outright for looking death in the face. (2.9.1.50)
Merton is never supposed to show any knowledge of Milly's terminal illness in front of her. But he keeps slipping up by trying to compliment her on how brave she's being. Eventually, he realizes that his compliments are actually very painful for her, because they remind her of what she's being brave in the face of—you know, her own impending death. If Milly had it her way, she'd just talk to Merton about pleasant things like love.
Quote #6
"She doesn't want to die. Think of her age. Think of her goodness. Think of her beauty." (2.9.3.36)
Well of course Milly doesn't want to die. Few people do. But Milly has tons to live for, including her beauty, money, and charm. Unfortunately, the whole "Oh, no! Not Milly!" sentiment starts to suggest that Milly's life is worth more than the lives of people who aren't as rich or as beautiful as she is.